The best defense against the flu is to get a flu shot, but if someone in your household comes down with the flu, your risk goes up even if you’ve had the shot. However, there are some common-sense precautions you can take to further minimize your risk of getting sick.

The influenza virus is an airborne illness, transmitted via a cough or sneeze that projects a mist containing the flu virus out into the air. Others breathe this air and get infected, similar to the way one catches a cold. The mist also lands on surfaces that others touch.  

In addition, an infected person’s hands – which handle tissues and which wipe and/or touch their eyes, mouth and nose - are “toxic” in that everything else they touch becomes a source for infecting others:  doorknobs, telephones, faucets, dishware and utensils, drinking glasses, surfaces of furniture, towels, books, magazines, etc.

When you sit down to eat your Thanksgiving meal on Thursday -- will you be thinking about the calories?

How many calories are in a typical Thanksgiving meal?

When you step into a hot tub, the calming effects of the warm water are felt almost instantly. Your muscles relax and stress seems to slip away. Many people use hot water immersion as a way to relieve stress and pain, and improve their overall health. A number of doctors and physical therapist recommend water therapy, especially warm water therapy, for their patients. With more than 5 million hot tubs in the United States, many people can enjoy the benefits of hot water therapy, or immersion, from the comfort of their own homes.