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October 25, 2001

Expert advises on how to handle the flu

When temperatures drop, cold and flu season is not far behind, a Pitt expert said.

Ted Delbridge, assistant professor of emergency medicine at the School of Medicine and medical director at UPMC Presbyterian's emergency department, offered advice on how to prepare for the cold and flu season.

"The flu and common cold have similar symptoms, but are not the same," Delbridge said. "People with colds usually experience congestion and sneezing, body aches and fatigue. People with the flu often have more severe body aches and fatigue, plus a fever, sore throat and coughing."

The flu can be transmitted easily through sneezing and coughing. It spreads quickly in enclosed spaces, such as classrooms and offices. Symptoms typically show up about two to four days after exposure and individuals usually are contagious for another three to four days after symptoms appear.

According to Delbridge, flu sufferers should drink plenty of water, rest as much as possible and take aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve fever and pain. (But do not give aspirin to children.) Individuals should contact a doctor with any of the following symptoms: high fever, chills, severe headache, lingering cough (more than a week) or coughing up colored sputum, chest pain or shortness of breath.

Delbridge advised: "Exercising, eating well, sleeping well, taking vitamins and washing your hands frequently are a few of the ways you can stay healthy and avoid the flu." He recommended an annual flu shot to decrease risk.

For information on flu vaccine availability, call the Allegheny County Health Department at 412/687-2243.

Filed under: Feature,Volume 34 Issue 5

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