Readying Arkansas for a lifetime of literacy

National Health Literacy Month: Flu Prevention

October is National Health Literacy Month and the beginning of flu season in Arkansas. Health literacy is a key part of managing everyday life in a new country for many adult learners, especially those in ESL programs. Knowing how to read medical information, communicate with healthcare professionals, and make informed decisions can significantly improve our learners’ well-being. Let’s look at how we can inform our learners about the flu in Arkansas and how to stay healthy.

How Health Literacy Impacts Flu Season

Health literacy means having the ability to find, understand, and use information to make decisions about your health. For adult learners, especially those in ESL classes, building health literacy is critical for understanding health risks, treatment options, and ways to protect themselves from illnesses like the flu.

Key aspects of health literacy for the flu include

  • Reading and understanding health information: Knowing how to read labels on flu medications, understand flu shot information, or follow care instructions is crucial.
  • Communicating with healthcare providers:  Learners being able to describe their symptoms accurately or ask about flu prevention or treatment can help them get the care they need.
  • Making informed health decisions: Health literacy helps learners decide when to visit the doctor, whether to get the flu vaccine, or how to treat flu symptoms at home.

Here are some key topics to consider for future lessons, along with insights on how the flu affects people in Arkansas.

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Unlike a common cold, the flu can lead to serious health problems like pneumonia, especially in older adults, young children, or people with certain medical conditions.

The flu season in Arkansas is typically from October to March, with the highest activity in the winter months. However, the flu can be unpredictable and vary from year to year. 

As of March 21, 2024, during the 2023-2024 flu season, 97 people in Arkansas died from the flu and all of the deaths were in people 65 or older. 70% of the deaths were in people who were not vaccinated against the flu. 

Symptoms of the Flu may include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea, though this is more common in children

 

Preventing the Flu

Teaching our learners about the prevention of the flu is critical. Here are some simple but effective ways that our learners can keep themselves safe! 

1. Get the Flu Shot

The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu. It is recommended every year for most adults, especially those over 65, pregnant women, or people with health conditions like asthma or diabetes. Even if are healthy, getting vaccinated protects those around you.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. These are the areas where the flu virus can enter your body.

3. Avoid Close Contact with Sick People

If someone around you is coughing or sneezing, try to maintain distance. If you feel sick, stay home to avoid spreading the flu to others.

4. Boost Your Immune System

Stay healthy by eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. These habits strengthen your immune system and make it easier for your body to fight off illnesses.

What to Do if You Get the Flu

It’s important to take care of yourself and prevent spreading it to others. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Rest and Stay Hydrated

Fluids and rest are essential for recovery. Drink plenty of water, herbal tea, or broth to stay hydrated. Rest helps your body heal faster.

2. Manage Symptoms

Over-the-counter medications like fever reducers or cough suppressants can help relieve symptoms. Be sure to read and follow the directions carefully.

3. See a Doctor if Needed

If you have a high fever, trouble breathing, or feel very weak, it’s important to contact a healthcare professional. The flu can lead to complications, especially in people with existing health conditions.

4. Stay Home

Avoid going to work or school until you’re feeling better. The flu is highly contagious, so staying home helps protect others.

Understanding Flu Medications

Flu symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medications, but learners must understand what they are taking. Be sure to:

  • Read labels carefully: Look for information on dosage, side effects, and warnings. Some medications may not be safe if you have other health conditions.
  • Ask for help if needed: If you’re unsure about a medication or how to take it, ask a pharmacist or healthcare provider. You can also ask for information in your first language if it’s available.

 

Building health literacy helps learners take charge of their health, make informed decisions, and feel confident when navigating healthcare systems. By teaching health literacy we empower our learners to be able to advocate for themselves and their families!

Resources:

Arkansas Department of Health: Has information about the 2024-2025 flu season in Arkansas. This includes resources on where students and their families can find a flu vaccine if they are interested.

Influenza (flu)

New York State Health Department: This link takes you to printable resources for flu educational resources. There are some great flyers and posters that can be a great conversation starters for students!

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/educational_materials.htm

American Red Cross: This site has a printable info sheet to give to students. The info sheet comes in a variety of languages if ESL students would like an info sheet in their first language

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flu-safety.html

Contact Info

Thanks for visiting the website of Adult Learning Alliance of Arkansas.

124 W Capitol Ave, Suite 1000

Little Rock, AR 72201

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