By Staff
Flu awareness key to wellness
While it’s pretty normal to mistake the flu for another ailment such as a cold or just “feeling under the weather,” it’s important to know the difference — because if it’s the flu, the sooner you can get help from your doctor, the better.
If you’re not sure it’s the flu you have, keep these things in mind. Flu symptoms generally appear one to three days after exposure to the virus.
Fortunately, no confirmed cases of the flu have been diagnosed in Atmore, but the potential threat is still there. Remember to keep your hands washed and to use tissues whenever you sneeze. Be thoughtful to the people around you.
The onset of symptoms often seems sudden: people describe the feeling “like they’ve been hit by a truck.” Symptoms can be mild or severe — and if they’re mild can become severe without much notice. Be aware of your body and monitor your body temperature.
The common symptoms of the flu include:
Runny nose may also occur but is more common in children than adults
Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, may also occur but are more common in children than adults
You don’t need to experience all of these symptoms to have the flu. If you have one or two, it’s recommended that you see your doctor.
And, of course, sometimes the symptoms you’re experiencing are simply signs of a cold.