Normandale Hylands United Methodist Church

Bloomington, Minnesota

remembering the past; celebrating the future

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If you or someone you know is in need of help or counsel regarding health concerns, please call the Parish Nurse at 952-835-7585 or email Doris Acton.

FROM THE PARISH NURSE…

I feel the capacity to care is the thing which

gives life its deepest significance.

Pablo Casals

IT’S TIME FOR FLU SHOTS!!

October is my favorite time of the year. I love the crisp, sunny autumn days, the beautiful fall colors, the falling leaves and the sounds the leaves make as we walk through them. The wonderful images of fall can quickly turn if you come down with the flu. The fever, sweating, chills, muscle aches, coughing and weakness can make you feel like you are nearing death. So what is this illness that can turn you from a fully functioning human being into someone who cannot get out of bed?

 Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. It differs from the stomach flu that causes diarrhea and vomiting. Anyone can get the flu, but young children, older adults, people with compromised immune systems and those who have a chronic disease or illness are especially vulnerable.

The flu is a highly contagious virus that is spread through the air when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the droplets, or you can pick up the germs from an object such as the telephone, computer keyboard, handles and door knobs. Once you pick up the virus it is easy to transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth.

Common symptoms of the flu include:

·         Fever

·         Chills and sweats

·         Headache

·         Dry cough

·         Muscular aches and pain

·         Fatigue and weakness

·         Nasal congestion

·         Loss of appetite

·         Diarrhea and vomiting in children

It is important to see your doctor if you are at risk for complications or develop signs and symptoms of pneumonia. This can include a severe, productive cough, a high fever and sharp pain with deep breathing.

Usually, to treat the symptoms of the flu involves nothing more than bed rest and plenty of fluids. Occasionally your physician may prescribe an antiviral drug such as Tamiflu or Relenza to treat the symptoms. It is important to note that the flu is a virus borne illness and antibiotics typically are not effective.

If you do come down with the flu try these home remedies:

·         Drink plenty of fluids.

·         Rest!!

·         Chicken soup…not only to make you feel good but to break up the

         congestion as well.

·         Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen to relieve the muscle

        aches and pain. Keep in mind that ibuprofen may cause stomach pain and

        bleeding and of acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Before giving

      pain relievers to your child it is wise to check with your child’s

        physician for the safest medication and dose.

Taking these steps can help you stay healthy, even during the height of the flu season:

·         Get an annual flu vaccination. The best time to be vaccinated is October 

         and November. This allows your body time to develop antibodies for the

         flu virus before peak flu season, in Minnesota, December - March.

         NHUMC will be holding a flu shot clinic on Wednesday, October 29^th

         from 4pm – 6pm. The cost this year is $27.

·         Wash your hands. Thorough and frequent hand washing is the best way 

         to fight common infections.

·         Eat right and sleep tight!

·         Exercise often. A fit body is better able to fight off infections and you

        may recover more quickly.

·         Avoid crowds during the flu season. Flu is contagious and spreads

        easily. Avoiding crowds whenever possible can reduce your chances of

        infection.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the flu, please contact your physician. The flu season is coming and following the tips listed above may help you avoid the flu or perhaps minimize the symptoms. Remember getting a flu shot may be one of your best defenses against the flu.

Blessings,

Doris K. Acton, RN

Parish Nurse

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,

especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:10