# 2398
In an average year, millions of Americans will come down with the flu, and 200,000 will be hospitalized.
And sadly, as many as 36,000 will die each year from flu complications.
And that's in a normal year.
Getting a flu shot is the best preventative. But even a flu shot can't provide 100% protection. And there are many ILI's, influenza-like-illnesses, that circulate every year that are not covered by the flu shot.
Making it vitally important that you know how to treat the flu, or a flu-like illness, should you or a loved one be stricken.
Dr. Grattan Woodson has for several years graciously made his Good Home Treatment of Influenza book available on his website without charge. Dr. Woodson's site is also a valuable resource, with dozens of essays and resources, on avian flu.
If you haven't already done so, now is a good time to download and print out this booklet. Then, once you've done that - read it and lay in the supplies you will need to treat the flu.
And if you haven't already done so, get your flu shot. And ask your doctor about the Pneumovax II (PPV) shot as well.
Good Home Treatment of Influenza
Download and Use Options
This booklet on home treatment of influenza was written for consumers, public health agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations and may be copied and distributed in part or in whole without a licensing fee as long as it is properly referenced as below.
Consumers: The 10-point PDF version of the booklet is designed for personal use and sharing with others.
Download the 10pt .pdf(580k)
Large Print Version: The 16-point PDF is provided for those wanting a large print version.
Download the 16pt(517k)
Booklet printing: The 16-point version is designed for printing as 34-page booklet that feature left edge binding with two pages printed in portrait orientation on each side of the page. Booklets printed in the way utilize 9 pieces of 8.5” x 11” paper and are suitable for color or black and white printing.
An MS Word version of the 10-point document is also provided.
Download the 10pt version(725k)
Suggested reference:
Grattan Woodson, MD, FACP An edited excerpt from The Bird Flu Manual, BookSurge Publishing, Charleston, SC, reprinted with permission.
According to the census bureau, 27 million Americans live alone. Millions more live in households where they are the sole capable adult, either as single parents or as a caretaker of another adult.
These people, who may have no one to care for them if they fall ill, are particularly at risk.
In 2007 I experienced just this dilemma, when I was suddenly struck by an influenza-like-illness that knocked me for a loop. I learned a big lesson that day, one that I share with you again:
If you live alone, or with someone who isn't likely to be a good caregiver, put a `flu box' under your bed, an arm's reach away.
When I was hit by the flu I desperately wished I had some basic meds and some sports drinks at hand. I could have saved myself considerable misery over those first 36 hours had I planned ahead.
Having a telephone next to the bed, isn't just a convenience, it could be lifesaving.
Singles should make arrangements with neighbors or friends who can check in on them, tend to them, and who can call for assistance if needed.
And finally, if you do get sick. STAY HOME!
Don't share your illness with co-workers or friends, or the guy who rides the subway to work next to you.
Influenza exacts a terrible toll, both to the economy, and in terms of morbidity and mortality each year. Don't add to the misery.
Stay home.
