Helpful information on the flu

Where's Emily Post when you need her? Someone needs to tell the flu it's rude to show up early. (Come to think of it, it' s rude to show up at all, when uninvited!) In typical years, the virus has hit during the fall and winter months. But, this year, influenza viruses are making the rounds already.

I know it's easy to get nervous about this year's flu season, especially with the new H1N1 virus making major headlines every day. And as a pregnant woman, myself, I'm definitely keeping a close eye on the news and counting down the days until the H1N1 vaccine is available!

But, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is doing a great job keeping its web site updated with information, complete with podcasts and YouTube videos. Gotta' love this technology - the CDC will even text message you updates if you're in to that sort of thing.

Whether you're looking for tips for keeping kids flu-free (I'll let you in on a secret - good ol' handwashing is still one of the best ways!); the differences between a cold and the flu; or if you should cancel that trip to Disney World, the CDC has got you covered.

And if you're worried about whether your sniffling, sneezing little guy needs to see a doctor, take comfort in knowing that most people with flu-like symptoms will recover without ever needing to see a physician. In fact, unless symptoms are serious, it's probably best to avoid crowded doctor's offices and hospitals where contagious patients are seeking care. Find out exactly when and where you should seek care for flu-like symptoms.

It's a germy world out there, but we're learning more about these viruses every day. Get smart and stay healthy!