Throughout the past couple of weeks, concerns about the Coronavirus and various illnesses have spread across the country. Due to this, many citizens tend to forget that the Flu is another serious illness that we need to be aware of within our country.

Sure, there can be cases of the Flu that are easy to recover from, but the Flu can also become deadly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been around 18,000-46,000 deaths in the U.S. since Oct.1, 2019.

However, this alarming statistic can hopefully be reduced by a few simple steps to keep healthy.

The largest protector from the Flu is ensuring that people receive the Flu vaccine. People of any age can be susceptible to the Flu, so it is essential to receive the vaccine. 

Other steps to stay safe from this deadly illness include: avoiding close contact to those who have the Flu, staying home when you personally have the Flu, covering your mouth and nose, cleaning your hands continuously throughout the day, averting touching your eyes, nose and mouth and practicing a healthy lifestyle.

Although it seems difficult to stay healthy, considering our consistent and daily contact with germs, practicing a healthy lifestyle is actually quite simple.

At home, work and school it is important to disinfect surfaces and objects in the environment. Other ways include keeping a plentiful sleep schedule, drinking a lot of water and managing stress. These strategies allow the body to keep a strong immune system to fight off bacteria that is encountered throughout the day.

Even after practicing these helpful steps, the Flu is an aggressive illness that still has the ability to get people sick. So, when should one be concerned about their symptoms?

A few alarming symptoms are fevers above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, persistent dizziness, fast or trouble breathing, chest pain, bluish lips or face, severe muscle pain or signs of not being alert or functional. 

It is crucial to be aware of these signs and symptoms and to practice these protective steps throughout daily life. The Flu is by no means an illness to overlook.