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February 7, 2011

The Flu And Flu Vaccine

Everyone knows about the flue and the flu vaccine. The flue vaccine, usually called a flu shot, protects people against the flu. In general, you can receive this injection between September and mid November- right before the December- April flue season hits- although it is possible to get it at other times of the year as well.

A common myth about the flu and the flue vaccine is that it can actually cause the flu. The flue vaccine injected into your upper arm will trigger your body to start making antibodies. This takes about a week or two. Should the real, live virus make an appearance, these antibodies will be all set to attack and destroy. The flu vaccines reduces your chances of getting the flu by 60 to 80 percent. But even if you do come down with the flu, your symptoms will be much less severe.

Oddly enough, flu vaccines are made in chicken eggs! This is done by injecting a tiny droplet of the flu virus into an egg. Three days later, the original droplet has grown and can now fill a tablespoon. The virus for the flu and the flu vaccine is now ready. The tops of the eggs are chopped off and the virus is suctioned out. What makes flu shots a bit of a gamble is that all of this takes at least six months.

Whether or not you get a flu and the flue vaccine is up to you, your parents and your doctor. Flu itself is not always dangerous, but some of its complications can be – especially for babies, little kids, older people, and those with certain health problems. These days, getting flu and the flu vaccine is easy. Hospitals, doctors offices, school health clinics, pharmacies, community centers, and even some supermarkets all administer flu shots.

February 2, 2011

Work during Pregnancy

Working during pregnancy has become increasingly common. Always discuss working and the type of work you do with your doctor. 
Unless you have been advised strict bed rest due to a medical problem in your pregnancy, it is generally safe to do routine work.

If you are a working woman there are a few things you need to keep in mind while working. Remember that you can get tired more easily now and you need to be more careful now. It is wise to inform your immediate manager about your pregnancy after the confirmation.


                  Tips to get through work 
 
1. Eat small frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. 

2. Avoid anything that triggers your nausea.Drink plenty of fluids throughout.Don't push yourself too hard.

3. Take time to relax.Frequent breaks are a must. 

4. Sit back with your legs up on a box or foot rest.Speak to your boss and take a short nap in the afternoon to refresh yourself.

5. Set a schedule for yourself- if you feel uneasy in the morning do the more stressful work in the afternoon and vice versa. 

6. Make sure you get regular exercise. This is a very important part of your routine and will help you keep fit and steady during your work.

7. Make sure you get adequate sleep during your pregnancy. 

8. Go to bed early and avoid staying up late as much as possible.

9. Use a support- like a small pillow for your lower back while sitting.

10. Talk about any problems you have in your work with your boss or a co-worker and find a       solution as  soon as possible.
       

       Things you should avoid doing at work

1. Avoid sitting in the same position for too long. 

2. Never stand for a prolonged period of time. This may cause giddiness or dizziness.

3. Never attempt to lift heavy weights.

4. If you are attempting to lift a light object, bend your knees as well. Do not attempt to bend only at the waist while lifting a weight.

5. Avoid confrontation or any stressful situations.

6. Avoid long stressful travel to work.

7. Exposure to heavy vibrations (for e.g. a large generator).

8. Exposure to any harmful substances.