HSE BULLETIN

ISSUE -01 April 2012

Cold & Flu

In Kuwait, we are getting into season when winter climate change into summer one. Weather is
not stable and there are fast unexpected changes in temperature. Hot afternoons changing into windy
and chilli evenings, sunny mornings changing into raining noons, dusty beginning of days turns into
sunny middays. This all provide good conditions for spreading of influenza viruses, that is why we are
meeting more people infected by flu or cold at this time of the year.

 Who is Affected:
People of all ages can get the flu. Especially those with weakened immune systems are most susceptible and
more likely to have serious complications.

 Causes:
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. There are many different strains of the virus and they mutate
frequently. This is why people continue to come down with the flu year after year.

 How the Flu is Spread:

Influenza is spread by droplets from the mouth and nose. If a person with the flu sneezes or coughs, the virus is
then released into the air and onto any objects around him including whatever the person touches. When
someone else breathes in those droplets or touches any object that has the virus on it then touches his nose,
mouth or eyes, the virus spreads.
The flu can be spread from 1 day before symptoms appear to 5 days after becoming sick. It is possible to
spread the flu before you even know you have it.

Help stop spread of flu viruses in the workplace

GDMC 247 0 03/09 Prepared by HSE pg 1/2

 Cold & Flu
Hands can transfer germs to every surface you touch.
Clean your hands as soon as you can.
3. KILL IT

 What to Expect:
The flu can last anywhere from 2-7 days, with 4-5 days being the most common. People with the flu usually
run a fever, have aches and pains throughout their bodies, feel exhausted, experience severe headaches and
may have cold symptoms. These symptoms come on more rapidly than they do with a cold. People with the flu
are typically unable to perform daily activities due to the illness.

 Is There a Cure?:
Your doctor will determine what antiviral medications are right for you. There is a flu vaccine that is typically
available starting in August or September. The flu vaccine provides protection against the strain of flu that
researchers believe is most likely to cause illness during flu season. However, because the influenza virus
mutates so frequently, the vaccine may not provide complete immunity to the flu.

 What Should I Do if I Have the Flu?:

The most important thing to do when you get the flu is to get plenty of rest. Because the flu is highly
contagious, you should avoid other people until you are feeling better. Other tips for taking care of yourself
when you have the flu:

Drink plenty of fluids – water, sports drinks

Take over the counter medications to relieve symptoms

Sleep as much as possible

Eat when you feel like it, but focus on staying hydrated if you aren’ t hungry

Avoid alcohol and tobacco use

GDMC 247 0 03/09 Prepared by HSE pg 2/2