HOME
Cold Weather Brings Cold and Flu Season
By John Miller, MD
Zuni IHS Hospital
Illness caused by viruses are common this time of year, and spread very easily. As the weather gets cold, people spend more time indoors and are exposed to more viruses. Viiruses are spread throught close contact with infected people. The best ways to reduce the chance of getting infected are by
- frequent handwashing,
- disinfecting contaminated surfaces with household chlorine bleach-based cleaners
- washing of soiled articles of clothing.
The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get a flu shot. Flu shots are currentlly available at the hospital
While everyone is at risk for getting the flu and other viral illnesses, these illnesses generally go away by themselves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral illness.
The warning signs for serious illness include:
- hight fever
- breathing problems
- dehydration.
Treatment is aimed at reducing discomfort and pushing fluids to avoid dehydration.
High risk individuals (childrens under 2, adults over 65, and people with chronic medical problems such as diabetes and kidney disease) are more llikely to get severely ill then others. Anyone with the warning signs for serious illness, especially those at high risk for complications, should not hesitate to call the hospital with any questions or to seek medical care.
Courtesy of the Zuni Post
Topics
Gallup Indian Medical Center
516 East Nizhoni Boulevard
Gallup, NM 87301-5748
Phone: (505) 722-1000
Zuni Indian hospital
P.O. Box 467
Zuni, N.M. 87327
Phone (505) 782-5723