Two easy methods to alleviate flu symptoms as cases rise sharply across the US.
With both the New Year and flu season in full swing, the CDC estimates about 7.5 million Americans have contracted the flu this winter, according to NPR.
The predominant strain currently is Influenza A, specifically a rapidly spreading, mutated H3N2 strain known as ‘subclade K.’
This strain is believed to be driving a global increase in hospitalizations, with nations such as the UK, Australia, and Japan experiencing high numbers of infections.
The US is also feeling the impact; CDC statistics indicate that flu-related hospital admissions have nearly doubled within a week.
Last week, over 19,000 flu patients were hospitalized, an increase of about 10,000 from the prior week.
New York, one of the hardest-hit states, noted its highest-ever single-week case count at 71,000.
Other states in the northeast, midwest, and south are also experiencing significant flu activity.
Though flu symptoms resemble those of a common cold, the flu tends to onset more suddenly and causes more severe ailments.
Influenza symptoms can include abrupt fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, cough, and sore throat, sometimes accompanied by a runny or congested nose.
Florian Krammer, a virologist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, cautions that it’s ‘not an infection you should take lightly.’
Two straightforward steps can help manage flu symptoms—sometimes simplicity is key.
The Mayo Clinic recommends, first and foremost, staying well-hydrated.
This includes drinking plenty of water, which is readily available and low-cost.
Additionally, warm soups and drinks fortified with minerals, known as rehydration solutions, are advised.
The second crucial step to take is rest.
Ensuring you take time to relax and adjust your commitments is essential.
It’s also crucial to reach out to a healthcare provider, particularly if you have pre-existing health issues that increase your vulnerability to flu complications.
Krammer notes that effective treatments are available, especially when initiated within 48 hours of infection.
“If you get an infection with influenza, that’s really a reason to see a physician, get diagnosed, and then take next steps,” he advises.
The Mayo Clinic also suggests using Tylenol or ibuprofen like Advil to help reduce fever and alleviate muscle pain or headaches.
According to the clinic, most individuals recover from the flu within a week, though a cough may persist for another week or two.
If in doubt, contact your doctor promptly.