Exploring Preventative Behaviors Against the Flu and Sociodemographic Factors
Understanding Influenza
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms of the flu include fever, fatigue, coughing, and body aches. The disease can be particularly severe in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, sometimes leading to death.
Preventing the Flu
To minimize the risk of contracting the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone over six months of age receive a vaccination each flu season. Despite this guidance, vaccination rates in the U.S. and Canada remain below desired levels. While vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu, additional everyday practices can further reduce the risk of infection and transmission. Key preventative measures include staying home when ill, covering the mouth when coughing, frequent handwashing, and maintaining proper hydration and rest.
Research on Preventative Social Behaviors
A research team from the University of California San Diego investigated how American adults engage in preventative behaviors regarding influenza. Their study utilized data from the 2015 National Internet Flu Survey to explore the relationship between these behaviors and sociodemographic factors, with findings published in PLoS ONE.
Survey Methodology
The CDC-sponsored survey was conducted online in 2015 and included questions about respondents’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to influenza and its vaccination. Additionally, demographic information and access to healthcare were gathered. Approximately 40% of participants reported receiving the flu vaccine, while over half reported frequent handwashing, avoiding sick individuals, using hand sanitizers, and covering coughs and sneezes. Other behaviors included staying home when sick and seeking medical care to prevent infection.
Findings on Preventative Measures
Interestingly, handwashing emerged as the most frequently reported preventative action, with over 83% of respondents practicing it, whereas fewer than 50% reported getting vaccinated. Statistical analyses revealed several characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of vaccination: being over 50 years old, female, not in the workforce, and having an annual household income exceeding $75,000.
Implications for Public Health
While vaccination remains the best strategy for preventing the flu, the study highlights additional measures that can contribute to reducing disease spread. The insights gained from this research can assist public health organizations in tailoring campaigns to enhance public awareness regarding vaccination and prevention methods. Continued research in this field will deepen our understanding of how preventative behaviors influence influenza transmission.
Reference
Srivastav A, Santibanez TA, Lu PJ, Stringer MC, Dever JA, Bostwick M, Kurtz MS, Qualls NL, Williams WW. Preventive behaviors adults report using to avoid catching or spreading influenza, United States, 2015-16 influenza season. PLoS ONE. 2018 Mar 30;13(3):e0195085.