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Influenza Awareness (continued)
Contributed by: Lawna Staven, Pharm.D. Candidate
KU School of Pharmacy
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DO NOT get a flu shot if you:
Have a history of of allergic reaction to the vaccine
Have an allergy to chicken eggs
Developed Guillian-Barre syndrome, an autoimmune disease affecting the peripheral nervous system, within 6 weeks of receiving the vaccine in the past
Currently have a fever. It's best to wait until symptoms improve before vaccination
How often should I get vaccinated?
Because the influenza virus mutates each season, you must get a vaccine each year which should last through one flu season. Once the first influenza outbreak occurs, scientists study the infecting virus to identify the types that will circulate in
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the upcoming season, which determines the influenza virus strains that make up the vaccine.
Other ways to prevent getting the flu:
PRACTICE GOOD HYGENE!!!
Wash hands thoroughly and often with soap and water. An alcohol-based sanitizer works well when on-the-go!
Avoid touching mouth, nose, and eyes
Avoid large crowds of people when flu prevalence is highest in your area
If you are one of the unfortunate patrons that catch the flu:
First of all, DO NOT GO TO WORK OR SCHOOL. You will make others sick and unhappy!
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For the relief of flu symptoms:
rest, Rest, and more REST
Drink plenty of fluids
Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen will alleviate muscle aches and fever
--NOTE: Don't give aspirin to children or teenagers at the risk of Reye's Syndrome. Acetaminophen causes liver damage when exceeding the maximum daily dose of 4,000 mg (for adults).
Anti-viral medications, available by prescription only, are effective only if given within 48 hours of symptom onset
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Tips for Caregivers
Contributed by: Kaylee Parsons-Adams, Pharm.D. Candidate
KU School of Pharmacy
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There are many different types of caregivers: those who care for a spouse, those who care for an elderly parent, and those who care for other family members in need. Providing care can be rewarding and fulfilling. It can also be difficult and overwhelming.
Three important tips for caregivers:
Take care of yourself. You can't take care of someone else if you aren't taking care of yourself. Caregivers can get sick, depressed, tired and burned out if they do not take time to themselves. Find the time to exercise regularly, eat a healthy and well-balanced diet, and enjoy your favorite hobbies. Do not feel guilty about spending time on yourself.
Don't try to do everything yourself. Ask other family members to pitch in and help. There are also professional agencies that can help. Agencies can step in and provide a break when needed by providing
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care at home or in a nursing home for a short period of time. There are also adult daycares that can provide care while you work or take time for you. Skilled nursing facilities are available to provide care for those who need help with personal care and health care management. Independent living facilities are available to provide care for those who can manage their personal care but need help with health care management.
Don't provide too much care. There is no reason to spend time providing care that the person can do himself or herself. Place reasonable expectations upon the person you care for. Examples include: caring for plants, dressing in the morning, making easy to prepare meals, writing a shopping list, and completing light housework. It is important to be patient and allow for mistakes. Save your time and energy for harder tasks such as: driving to and
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from errands, healthcare management, and completing harder housework. Allow the person to maintain pride by making his or her own decisions when possible. These decisions can include what to wear, what time to do certain tasks, and what to eat. Those receiving care usually live longer and more independently if they have a purpose. If possible, get a plant or small pet for him or her to care for.
For more information visit:
The United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Aging
www.aoa.gov/prof/aoaprog/caregiver/caregiver.aspx.
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