MUNDELEIN, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Each year, there are 1 billion annual cases of the common cold or flu in the U.S., which usually begins when a tiny dose of a virus is inhaled from a sneeze or cough or transmitted by touch. Most colds last about one week, but the flu can linger longer, disrupting not only someone’s health, but also their family life, school, work, and even wallet. According to a study that took a look at the 2012-2013 flu season, 230 million workdays were missed due to flu-related illnesses, costing employers a whopping $30.4 billion in healthcare and lost productivity. Furthermore, the average trip to the doctor and purchasing medication could set someone back $130 per visit.
Because we all live varying lifestyles, it’s important to consider how someone’s daily routine could be putting them at risk for catching a cold or flu. Whether a working parent, an active senior, a social student or somewhere in between, everyone is at risk this flu season. To help minimize risks, CURAD has created the Flu Fighter – a customizable assessment tool that addresses the needs of people in different life stages and with varied lifestyles. By answering a few questions, CURAD will present a personalized protection plan that includes simple steps for staying healthy at home and on-the-go.
“It’s important that people don’t just sit back and wait for the flu to attack them, said Martie Moore, chief nursing officer, CURAD, and advisor to the American Nurses Foundation of the American Nurses Association. “My advice to everyone is to take a proactive approach. The best way to protect yourself during cold and flu season is to assess your risks and develop a line of defense that is specifically geared toward your lifestyle and daily activities.”
Do you spend a lot of time around crowds of people, get enough sleep, follow a well-balanced diet or wash your hands often? Are you a frequent flyer, or commute by bus or train? Here are three simple steps for protecting yourself this cold and flu season.
1. Keep hand sanitizer handy
Anything someone touches could hold the flu virus, especially when it’s touched by lots of other people. This includes a cell phone, car keys, doorknobs and other objects in high traffic areas. When selecting a hand sanitizer, choose one with high alcohol content, effective against a broad range of pathogens, and that can kill germs in seconds.
“It’s surprising all of the places that germs can hide out,” says Moore. “Regular hand washing can help stop the spreading of germs. You may not always be in a place with access to soap and water, but a few spritzes of hand sanitizer can help in a pinch.”
2. Get the latest flu fighting accessory
There’s still time to purchase the latest accessories for flu season. For example, a facemask, such as the CURAD antiviral facemask, helps stop germs in their tracks, puts the user in control of their health and provides a peace of mind when it comes to protecting against flu viruses.
“Some people feel a little awkward wearing a face mask in public, but when you consider the disruption and expenses the flu causes, wearing a face mask is definitely worth it. Some people find that throwing a scarf around the mask helps the user wear it with confidence, and it’s a double layer of protection,” says Moore.
3. Avoid excessive workouts
Regular exercise is a key ingredient in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing illnesses. It strengthens the immune system and helps fight viral and bacterial infections. However, extreme workouts can boost the level of stress hormones in the bloodstream and actually weaken an immune system. The Department of Health and Human Services advises individuals to get at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity.
“A regular exercise routine is important to protect against the cold, flu and other illnesses,” reminds Moore. “Know your limits and remember to give your body a chance to properly rest and recover. You can’t go to battle with the flu if you’re not 100 percent.”
Visit www.CURAD.com to take the Flu Fighter assessment and receive a personalized protection plan.
About CURAD
Since being acquired by Medline in 2007, the CURAD brand has been re-energized – introducing many innovative solutions for a broad range of health concerns. With new Truly Ouchless™ adhesive technology, rugged Performance Series™ bandages and tapes, and advanced options like hydrocolloid and antibacterial bandages, CURAD remains at the forefront of creating hospital-quality products for home use. Learn more at www.curad.com.
About Medline
Medline is a global manufacturer and distributor serving the healthcare industry with medical supplies and clinical solutions that help customers achieve both clinical and financial success. Headquartered in Mundelein, Ill., the company offers 350,000+ medical devices and support services through more than 1,200 direct sales representatives who are dedicated points of contact for customers across the continuum of care. For more information on Medline, go to www.medline.com or http://www.medline.com/social-media to connect with Medline on its social media channels.
