Fighting the flu: Follow fact not fiction

HOUSTON -- (October 7, 2009) -- When it comes to flu season, there are many tips to staying healthy and recovering quickly. However, doctors at Baylor College of Medicine say they may not all be worth heeding.

At the first signs of illness many people begin to take vitamins in hopes of stopping the infection. But according to Dr. William Goins, assistant professor of medicine – infectious disease at BCM, there is no scientific evidence that taking vitamins at the start of symptoms stops the flu from progressing.

Be healthy, stay healthy, get vaccinated

He instead suggests maintaining healthy habits at all times including CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommendations such as getting plenty of sleep, being physically active and eating nutritious food.

"The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated," said Goins.

Habits such as covering your cough and avoiding close contact with people who are sick will also protect against the spread of the flu.

Washing hands is also a good way to prevent the spread of the flu. If you aren't near a bathroom, doctors say hand sanitizers work well in the meantime. "Both alcohol-based hand sanitizers and hand washing with soap and water are highly effective against the spread of the flu virus," said Dr. John Rogers, chair of family and community medicine at BCM.

Adages not always correct

"Feed a fever, starve a cold," is often heard during this time of year but "starving" anything is not a good idea.

"You should not overeat or limit calories when sick," Goins adds. A change in diet has not been shown to help fight the flu.

"Feeding" a fever isn't exactly accurate either. "When it comes to a fever, you need to stay hydrated because you lose more fluid," said Rogers. "Dehydration can affect how ill a person feels. It can aggravate nausea and vomiting and cause lightheadedness."

Masks offer little protection

Contrary to what many people believe, wearing a face mask during your daily routine is not a sure way to stay safe from the spread of the cold and flu.

"Generally, face masks are not recommended in community and home settings," said Goins. It isn't sealing in or out the virus, and the virus can still enter the body through the eyes.