NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. (January 31, 2019) — The months of December through February bring cold weather and increased reports of influenza across the U.S. Recently, virulence has been growing in New York City and the surrounding areas. Mobile Life Support Services, the largest emergency medical provider in the Hudson Valley, shares safety tips and advice for adults and children to prevent the development and spread of the flu this season, which can last into the spring months.
There are two types of flu viruses, A and B, that affect humans, and there are multiple strains of each type of virus. Of the various strains of the virus, experts must identify which are likely to be most prominent in the coming year and develop vaccines. Receiving the vaccine can reduce the risk of illness from 30 to 60 percent, according to the CDC. Flu shots may be administered at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, health centers, and some offices, schools and colleges.
“Each year, the flu affects millions of people across the country. Individuals who are immunocompromised in any way, including the elderly and young children, are the most susceptible to becoming infected and can be more severely affected,” said Mobile Life President & CEO Scott Woebse. “Practicing good health habits can help protect you and your loved ones from the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.”
In addition to receiving the flu shot, Mobile Life recommends these tips to help prevent the development of influenza this year:
- Wash your hands. Washing your hands often with soap and water will help protect you and everyone you come in contact with from spreading infection. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a great alternative to limit the spread of bacteria, but washing hands is still the most effective way to reduce the spread of any virus.
- Avoid close contact. If you know family members, coworkers or fellow students are suffering from flu-like symptoms, avoid close contact with them. If you are ill, keep your distance from others to avoid getting them sick.
- Stay home. If possible, stay home from work or school and avoid running errands when you are sick to prevent the spread of illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing to help prevent the spread of germs to those around you.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. The spread of germs is fostered by touching something that’s contaminated and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Develop a healthy lifestyle. Getting the recommend eight hours of sleep, being physically active, drinking fluids and eating nutritious foods can help prevent illness.
- Clean often. Cleaning and disinfecting your home or workspace will also help prevent the spread of germs. Increase your cleaning routine when you or someone you know is sick.
To learn more about Mobile Life Support Services, visit www.mobilelife.com.
About Mobile Life Support Services, Inc.
Mobile Life Support Services, Inc. is a New York State Certified Advanced Life Support paramedic ambulance company that provides emergency services to communities and healthcare facilities throughout the Hudson Valley Region of New York State, including the counties of Dutchess, Orange, Rockland, Ulster, and Westchester. Founded in 1981 by Rick and Gayle Metzger, Mobile Life is composed of more than 500 EMS professionals across the region and operates a fleet of more than 60 ambulances and 26 stations. With a collective population of more than 1,000,000 residents, Mobile Life handles approximately 100,000 calls per year. For more information, visit www.mobilelife.com.
