The 2007-2008 flu seasons officially began in October, and will run all the way to May. The flu hospitalizes some 200,000 people, and takes the lives of 36,000 people annually. The flue does not discriminate, and all peoples, of all ages should prepare themselves properly for this year’s season, and the season’s of years to come.

Influenza or the flu is a respiratory infection caused by a virus which results in body tenderness, a fever, fatigue, cough, and oftentimes a soar throat and runny nose.

All of these symptoms unfortunately are also symptoms for many other types of infections. The best way to find out if you have the flu is to see your doctor within the first two to four days of your infection.

The flu test is not 100 percent accurate so it important to only get tested if your physician recommends it, to avoid false diagnosis.

Avoiding the flu can be quite practical. Avoiding people who are already sick, washing your hands regularly, cover your mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing, can all help you avoid the flu.

But if you are at high risk of having complications due to the flu it is crucial that you are vaccinated every fall. But be wary that the vaccination takes 10 to 14 days to make the patient completely immune to the virus.

If you are one of the people who happen to hate needles, there is a new alternative to the shot vaccination.

FluMist is influenza vaccination that is sprayed once in either nostril and you are immediately protected from both A and B forms of the virus. FluMist spays live A and B forms of the virus directing into you system and you are protected from catching it instantly.

December through March is the months when the flu is at its prime. Influenza thrives in cold weather. This is bad for humans because the fall and winter are when students are in school, and adults are busy at work, so the virus spreads quickly.

If happen to acquire the flu, even after taking precautions you must take care of yourself. Take off from your day to day schedule and get plenty of sleep. Drink lots of fluids, water helps to flush out the virus. Hot water or tea is southing and will help you relax as well as flushing out the virus.

Also take an aspirin or aspirin substitute to regulate your fever, sooth body aches, and relieve headaches.

Most importantly if you believe you have the flu, get to your doctor within 48 hours to be properly diagnosed and receive the medical attention and prescriptions you will need to control the virus.