How is Your Lifestyle Affecting Your Cold and Flu Protection Plan?

New interactive tool provides customized protection plan and helpful
tips for optimum protection

MUNDELEIN, Ill.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Each year, there are 1
billion annual cases of the common cold or flu in the U.S., which
usually begins when a tiny dose of a virus is inhaled from a sneeze or
cough or transmitted by touch. Most colds last about one week, but the
flu can linger longer, disrupting not only someone’s health, but also
their family life, school, work, and even wallet. According to a study
that took a look at the 2012-2013 flu season, 230 million workdays were
missed due to flu-related illnesses, costing employers a whopping $30.4
billion in healthcare and lost productivity. Furthermore, the average
trip to the doctor and purchasing medication could set someone back $130
per visit.

Because we all live varying lifestyles, it’s important to consider how
someone’s daily routine could be putting them at risk for catching a
cold or flu. Whether a working parent, an active senior, a social
student or somewhere in between, everyone is at risk this flu season. To
help minimize risks, CURAD has created the Flu
Fighter – a customizable assessment tool that addresses the needs of
people in different life stages and with varied lifestyles. By answering
a few questions, CURAD will present a personalized protection plan that
includes simple steps for staying healthy at home and on-the-go.

“It’s important that people don’t just sit back and wait for the flu to
attack them, said Martie Moore, chief nursing officer, CURAD, and
advisor to the American
Nurses Foundation of the American
Nurses Association. “My advice to everyone is to take a proactive
approach. The best way to protect yourself during cold and flu season is
to assess your risks and develop a line of defense that is specifically
geared toward your lifestyle and daily activities.”

Do you spend a lot of time around crowds of people, get enough sleep,
follow a well-balanced diet or wash your hands often? Are you a frequent
flyer, or commute by bus or train? Here are three simple steps for
protecting yourself this cold and flu season.

1. Keep hand sanitizer handy

Anything someone touches could hold the flu virus, especially when it’s
touched by lots of other people. This includes a cell phone, car keys,
doorknobs and other objects in high traffic areas. When selecting a hand
sanitizer, choose one with high alcohol content, effective against a
broad range of pathogens, and that can kill germs in seconds.

“It’s surprising all of the places that germs can hide out,” says Moore.
“Regular hand washing can help stop the spreading of germs. You may not
always be in a place with access to soap and water, but a few spritzes
of hand sanitizer can help in a pinch.”

2. Get the latest flu fighting accessory

There’s still time to purchase the latest accessories for flu season.
For example, a facemask, such as the CURAD
antiviral facemask, helps stop germs in their tracks, puts the user
in control of their health and provides a peace of mind when it comes to
protecting against flu viruses.

“Some people feel a little awkward wearing a face mask in public, but
when you consider the disruption and expenses the flu causes, wearing a
face mask is definitely worth it. Some people find that throwing a scarf
around the mask helps the user wear it with confidence, and it’s a
double layer of protection,” says Moore.

3. Avoid excessive workouts

Regular exercise is a key ingredient in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
and preventing illnesses. It strengthens the immune system and helps
fight viral and bacterial infections. However, extreme workouts can
boost the level of stress hormones in the bloodstream and actually
weaken an immune system. The Department
of Health and Human Services advises individuals to get at least 30
minutes of daily physical activity.

“A regular exercise routine is important to protect against the cold,
flu and other illnesses,” reminds Moore. “Know your limits and remember
to give your body a chance to properly rest and recover. You can’t go to
battle with the flu if you’re not 100 percent.”

Visit www.CURAD.com
to take the Flu Fighter assessment and receive a personalized protection
plan.

About CURAD

Since being acquired by Medline in 2007, the CURAD brand has been
re-energized – introducing many innovative solutions for a broad range
of health concerns. With new Truly Ouchless™ adhesive technology, rugged
Performance Series™ bandages and tapes, and advanced options like
hydrocolloid and antibacterial bandages, CURAD remains at the forefront
of creating hospital-quality products for home use. Learn more at www.curad.com.

About Medline

Medline
is a global manufacturer and distributor serving the healthcare industry
with medical supplies and clinical solutions that help customers achieve
both clinical and financial success. Headquartered in Mundelein, Ill.,
the company offers 350,000+ medical devices and support services through
more than 1,200 direct sales representatives who are dedicated points of
contact for customers across the continuum of care. For more information
on Medline, go to www.medline.com
or http://www.medline.com/social-media
to connect with Medline on its social media channels.

Contacts

Medline
Stacy Rubenstein, 847-949-2286
srubenstein@medline.com