A slight tickle in your throat, body aches, and a sudden fever could be some of the first signs that you’re coming down with the flu. The influenza virus (or flu for short) affects up to 20

percent of the U.S. population each year. It’s crucial that you recognize the symptoms early so you can start taking care of yourself. It’s especially critical for young children, older

adults, pregnant women, or people with conditions that affect their respiratory or immune systems to seek medical attention quickly. These tips will not only help you feel better faster, but

also help prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus to other people in your community. Recognizing the signs of the flu It’s easy to mistake the flu for a minor cold at first.

everyone with the flu will have a fever. What to do If you notice that you’re experiencing signs of the flu, follow these tips: * WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY to prevent the spread of the

virus. Aim for about 20 seconds of scrubbing with soap and water before rinsing. * COVER COUGHS AND SNEEZES WITH YOUR ARM instead of your hands, or direct them into a disposable tissue. The

flu is highly contagious and easily spreads through the air if you cough or sneeze. * EAT HEALTHY to boost your immune system. Though you might lose your appetite when you’re sick, eating

small meals rich in fruits and vegetables will help give your body the strength it needs to fight off the virus. * DRINK LOTS OF FLUIDS, especially water, tea, and low-sugar electrolyte

drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. * PURCHASE THE ESSENTIALS, such as tissues, over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants, cough suppressants, your favorite tea, and fresh fruits and

vegetables to snack on while you’re at home. If you’re already feeling ill, though, it might be a good idea to ask a friend or loved one to do your shopping for you. * ALERT YOUR WORKPLACE.

It can be hard to take off from work, but your boss will appreciate it if you stay home to avoid getting your co-workers sick. * STAY HOME AND REST. Ultimately, the best treatment for the

flu is to get enough rest. * BE DILIGENT ABOUT HYGIENE. Wash your hands frequently. You can keep antibacterial wipes on hand to combat the spread of germs. What not to do At the first signs

of the flu, avoid doing any of the following: * DON’T GO TO WORK OR SCHOOL. You’re contagious a day or two before your symptoms begin and remain contagious for up to five to seven days after

you started feeling sick. * DON’T SHAKE PEOPLE’S HANDS OR HUG THEM. You don’t want to play a role in spreading the virus, so avoid making physical contact with others or sharing food and

drinks. * DON’T PUSH YOURSELF. The flu is a progressive illness, meaning your symptoms will worsen before they get better. Depriving your body of rest in the first couple days after symptoms

start can end up lengthening the time it takes for you to recover. * AVOID PROCESSED FOODS AND SUGAR, as these foods won’t give you many nutrients. * TRY NOT TO SKIP MEALS. It’s fine to eat

a little less when you have the flu, but your body still needs nutrition and energy to fight off the virus. Soup, yogurt, fruits, vegetables, oatmeal, and broth are all great options. *

DON’T VENTURE INTO CROWDED PLACES since the flu is highly contagious. * BE CAUTIOUS WITH UNPROVEN HERBAL REMEDIES. If you want to try an herbal remedy, be careful. Herbs and supplements

aren’t scrutinized by the FDA for quality, packaging, and safety. Make sure to buy them from a reputable source or ask your doctor for a recommendation. * DON’T SMOKE. The flu is a

respiratory illness, and smoking will irritate your lungs and make your symptoms worse. When to see a doctor You might think it’s safe to just stay home and rest if you’ve come down with the

flu. But it’s a good idea to see a doctor if you fall into any of the categories below. YOU’RE CONSIDERED HIGH RISK Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing dangerous flu-related

complications, like pneumonia or bronchitis. According to guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), high-risk individuals include: * people ages 65 years and older *

children 18 years of age and younger who are taking aspirin-based or salicylate-based medications * children younger than 5 years of age, especially those under 2 * people who live with

chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease) * people with a compromised immune system * women who are pregnant or up to two weeks postpartum * residents of

nursing homes and other long-term care facilities * Native Americans (American Indians and Alaska Natives) If you fit into one of these categories, you should see a doctor at the earliest

signs of the flu. A doctor may decide to prescribe an antiviral medication. These medications work best when they’re taken within the first 48 hours after symptoms start. YOU’RE EXPERIENCING

SEVERE SYMPTOMS For adults, signs of an emergency include: * difficulty breathing or shortness of breath * chest pain * confusion * severe or persistent vomiting * sudden dizziness For

infants and children, emergency flu symptoms include: * trouble breathing * blueish skin * irritability * fever that accompanies a rash * inability to eat or drink * no tears when crying

FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS GET BETTER, BUT THEN GET WORSE Most people recover from the flu within one to two weeks. Others will start to get better and then find that their condition rapidly

deteriorates and their fever spikes again. If this happens, it could mean that you have a flu complication like pneumonia, an ear infection, or bronchitis. You should see a doctor right

away. The bottom line While you may be able to carry on working or going to the gym with a cold, the flu may make you feel too ill to follow your usual routine. It can be difficult to miss

work or school, but if you’re starting to notice early signs of the flu, do yourself and everyone else a favor and stay home, especially if you have a fever. If you go out while sick, you

could be putting other people at great risk for serious illness and you’ll only be making your recovery more difficult.