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Winter season has arrived, and with Christmas less than a few days away, many people are falsely assuming that they've got the flu. Although you might think you've got the flu from a few sneezing episodes, the odds are that you're probably OK.
You should, however, make it a top priority to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Before you start jumping to any false conclusions about coming down with seasonal flu, it's important to understand the main symptoms that are attributed to the seasonal flu:
Symptoms:
*Please Visit Your Doctor...
 1) It's Inevitable; I'm Going to Catch the Flu - If you take any form of public transportation to work in the morning, there is a good chance you might be grabbing a rail that someone else sneezed on! The touching of surfaces is known as fomite transmission virus. The virus can be avoided by simply remembering not to touch your face after you've touched any rail or surface. Always wash your hands thoroughly after you've touched any surface area to prevent fomite transmission.
2) I’ve Got the Flu - Uh oh, better call in sick today, I've got the flu! Unless you are suffering from fever, chills or body aches, you're most likely fine. The chances are that you don't have the influenza virus, just a common cold instead. The flu is caused by more severe viruses, and lasts far longer than the typical cold. Make yourself a hot bowl of soup, drink lots of water, drink some green tea, and enjoy a nice movie at home!
Related Article: 12 Common Myths about Colds and the Flu
3) Vaccination Won't Help Me - Did you get yourself vaccinated for the winter season? Vaccination shots help prevent against the influenza virus. There are certain groups of people that are more vulnerable to catching the flu, due to their immune systems not being strong enough to combat the illness. The people at most risk are pregnant women, the elderly, and small children. You can head over to your family physician, or even your local pharmacy, to get vaccinated. Make sure you get that flu shot today!
 4) I Can Catch it By Eating Infected Chickens - Can you really catch the flu from eating bad chicken? The H5N1 strain of the virus had contaminated flocks of poultry a few years ago, but the good news is that the bird flu virus has no serious adverse affects to us humans. Just remember to wash your hands before and after you prepare the chicken to avoid possible contamination.
5) I'll Catch it, No Big Deal - Unless you have superhuman powers or an immune system that is virus-proof, you're more than likely to catch a seasonal flu this holiday season. Do yourself and your colleagues at the office a huge favor, and just stay home if you are feeling sick. Airborne viruses travel quickly, and they can infect scores of people around you. Once again, make sure you get yourself fully vaccinated to minimize the risks for the disease.
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| (H/T:iflscience.com) |
