The weather has been absolutely crazy lately – up and down – but with cooler temperatures, Fall Festival, and the rapidly approaching holiday season, everyone seems to be in a festive mood. For me, the annual “Christmas Joys” program jump-starts my holidays! This year’s program is full of great recipes, decorating ideas, and gift-giving ideas! For those who have already signed up, please remember to attend! The 1:30 program is full, and we don’t want to leave anyone out that would like to come. However, we still have seats left for the 5:30 p.m. session, which will be the exact same program.
As a reminder, here are the details:
- What: 44th Annual Christmas Joys Holiday Program
- When: Monday, November 6
- Time: 1:30 p.m. (full), repeated at 5:30 p.m. (seats still remain)
- Where: Southwest Dairy Museum auditorium
- Cost: $5
The fee covers goody bags, booklet of all the recipes and ideas shared, chance for door prizes, and refreshments provided by the Southwest Dairy Museum. In addition, each attendee will receive one of the completed projects demonstrated in the program!
If you would like to attend the 5:30 session, please contact our office at 903-885-3443 and give your name and phone number. As of this writing, only 16 seats remain for the 5:30 session.
Flu Season and Hand Hygiene
In addition to cooler temperatures and approaching holidays, another not-so-pleasant occurrence takes place – flu season! Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a contagious illness caused by a virus that affects the upper respiratory system (nose, mouth, sinuses, and throat). The flu virus spreads easily from person to person and can live on surfaces for hours. The flu season occurs every year from October to May and affects up to 20 percent of the U.S. population.
The flu spreads easily from person to person. It can be “caught” by:
- Breathing airborne droplets of the flu virus from others’ coughs or sneezes
- Touching virus-contaminated surfaces (tables, doorknobs, telephones) and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes with virus-contaminated hands
To aid in prevention, get an annual flu shot in the fall before the flu season starts (NOW is the time!) Stay 3 to 6 feet away from others who are sick. Obviously, do not kiss and hug others until you are well. Remain at home when sick and please keep your children home if they are ill. Do not return to school or work until your fever is below 100 ̊F for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medicine.
Washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when water is not available, will go a long way in helping prevent the spread of the flu. Also, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
You can strengthen your immune system with healthy lifestyle habits, such as:
– Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
– Getting plenty of rest. Sleep at least 7 to 8 hours a night.
– Exercising regularly—at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.
– Reducing your daily stress level.
There are some things you can do at home as treatment if you or a loved one comes down with the flu. First and foremost, stay home and rest. Drink plenty of fluids (water, juice, electrolyte drinks). Take over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms. Antiviral medications are available by prescription from your doctor. o be effective, take antiviral medications within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Antiviral medications are recommended for people with a high risk of having flu complications. A cool-mist humidifier can be beneficial. Clean it regularly according to the instruction manual to prevent mold.
See a doctor when a young child, pregnant woman, elderly person, or someone with a chronic health condition becomes ill with the flu—they have an increased chance of flu complications. A stiff neck developing along with fever or complications, such as difficulty breathing or signs of dehydration occur signal a need to see a doctor. If symptoms worsen each day and you are concerned and need advice, a doctor can provide assistance.
Closing Thought
Ever speak badly about yourself. You are fearfully and wonderfully made!
Johanna Hicks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Family & Consumer Sciences
1200-B W. Houston
P.O.Box 518
Sulphur springs, TX 75483
903-885-3443 – phone
903-439-4909 – Fax
[email protected]
