This year\u2019s flu season is severe. Not only are hospital emergency rooms receiving\u00a0 people with the flu in record numbers but\u00a0 there has also been reports of higher than average flu- related deaths.
\nMost people who get the flu will recover in five to seven days.\u00a0 However, in some cases, the virus can cause complications that can be life threatening.
\nSome people are more at risk than others for developing serious flu-related illnesses; they include:
\n\u2022Young children, usually under the age of two
\n\u2022Older adults, typically over 65
\n\u2022Women who are pregnant
\n\u2022Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy
\nPeople who are immunocompromised and have chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, HIV or AIDS and sickle cell anemia are especially at higher risk for developing life- threatening complications from the flu.
\nThe flu can lead to secondary bacterial infections. This can cause pneumonia and other complications that become harder to treat due the immune system\u2019s weakened state.
\nThe key to treating the flu is to act quickly as soon as you begin to develop symptoms. For some people just staying home, getting bed rest, and staying hydrated will help them to recover. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
\nYour primary care physician will be best suited to diagnose you and to offer you treatment options. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital, please call 718-670-5486.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" This year\u2019s flu season is severe. Not only are hospital emergency rooms receiving\u00a0 people with the flu in record numbers but\u00a0 there has also been reports of higher than average flu- related deaths. Most people who get the flu will … Continue reading