How to Prevent the Spread of the Flu Virus According to Chad Price MAKO Medical CEO
Since late 2022, the United States has been in the grips of a flu surge. While we need to be on our guard against the COVID-19 variations, the reported flu cases are also cause for concern. Understanding the virus and protecting yourself against it is a top priority. In the following article, we will take a look at advice from Chad Price, MAKO Medical.
“We’ve seen over the past several months flu positivity rates and RSV in kids has increased significantly,” explains Josh Arant. “COVID, the past two winters, has been the main story but now flu positivity rates continue to increase and RSV as well.”
With flu on the rise yet again, medical experts across the country are looking for new ways that people can stay safe. It’s important to decrease the spread of this virus so that the cases are kept under control in the months to come. What’s more, it’s vital to acknowledge the difference between the various viruses that are now spreading among people.
“So, we’re here to test and try to figure out and diagnose those things for the patients. We’re seeing that increase occur,” says Josh Arant. “It’s really tough to pin down why that is; if it’s just these strains are stronger than the current COVID strain. But we are seeing that data as everyone’s reading about it in the news.”
If you are worried about your chances of catching the flu virus, you have come to the right place. The truth of the matter is that there are plenty of ways that you can lower your risk when you are socializing or simply commuting to and from work. Read the following advice from Chad Price, MAKO Medical Laboratories CEO, and use it in your everyday life.
Notice the symptoms early
One of the best ways to protect those around you from the flu virus is to recognize the symptoms as early as possible. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these signs include headaches, fevers, coughs, a sore throat, a runny nose, muscular and body aches, tiredness, and even vomiting. Should you find that you notice any of these signs, you need to do something about it. Realizing that you may be developing the flu virus means that you can act quickly and keep others around you safe.
When you have recognized the symptoms, the next step is to steer clear of other people. While that doesn’t necessarily mean isolating completely, you should avoid socializing in large groups and perhaps even attending your workplace. This type of virus is known to spread extremely quickly. For that reason, the more you can do, the better it will be.
Increase your everyday hygiene
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we all got used to washing our hands more thoroughly and often than ever before. Now that cases are declining, that doesn’t mean that you should get out of this good hygiene habit. Whenever possible, make sure that you are washing your hands with good-quality antibacterial soap. Don’t merely give your hands the once-over. Instead, you should wash them intently for a matter of minutes to get it right.
Equally, you need to make sure that you are practicing good hygiene in other areas of your life. You can carry some antibacterial gel with you when you are out. That way, after you have touched things like door handles and railings, you can quickly rid your hands of any germs. Once you get into this habit, it will become second nature to you. Changing the way that you behave when you are in public can have a huge impact on your risk level. It’s all about thinking about the small ways you can rid yourself of any germs and stay safe.
Boost your immune system
Your immune system protects your body from external toxins and infections. The stronger and more robust it is, the better you will be protected against viruses. With that in mind, one of the smartest ways that you can lower your risk of getting the latest strain of the flu virus is by supporting your immune system. There are plenty of ways you can do this.
For example, you may choose to improve your diet and include more high-vitamin ingredients. Increasing your intake of fruit and vegetables is a great place to start here. Equally, making sure that you get enough sleep will enable you to have a stronger level of immunity when it comes to illnesses. You should also ensure that you are exercising regularly so that you can keep your body fighting fit. Above all else, this is about looking after your everyday wellness so that you are in the best position to fight off the virus.
Get tested regularly
If you are concerned that you may have the flu virus, one of the easiest things you can do is undergo a quick influenza test. That way, you will have conclusive evidence as to whether you have the virus. Armed with that knowledge, it will be straightforward for you to project the people around you. Some workplaces offer regular testing facilities or you may choose to get the test yourself, depending on your personal preferences. The more knowledge you have here, the more you have the power to stop the spread of the virus.
The Takeaway
While the weather may be getting warmer, it is still important to protect yourself from the common flu. This virus has been spreading like wildfire in recent months so it’s important to be vigilant when it comes to the measures that you are taking here. One thing that you can do is follow the expert advice we have shared here. Using this guidance you can keep not only yourself but those around you safe. Chad Price, MAKO Medical Laboratories CEO, is a well-respected healthcare entrepreneur. Along with Josh Arant and Adam Price, he founded the nationally-renowned medical testing and reference laboratories.
“Pop culture advocate. Troublemaker. Friendly student. Proud problem solver.”
