Wellness Tips from Josef Schenker, MD
Welcome to our Wellness Tips blog series, brought to you by Dr. Josef Schenker, the Medical Director at Centers Urgent Care. Throughout this series, Dr. Schenker shares his deep knowledge and real-world experience from years in internal medicine and emergency medical services to help you live a healthier, more informed life.
Each post focuses on a crucial health topic, offering practical advice and expert insights to help you avoid common illnesses. With a strong emphasis on prevention and self-care, Dr. Schenker’s tips aim to empower you to make smart, proactive decisions about your health and well-being.
Influenza Precautions
Every year, millions of people in the United States catch the flu. According to the CDC, influenza affects between 9 million to 41 million Americans annually, leading to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths. It’s more than just a bad cold — influenza can be a serious threat, especially to young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.
Recognizing early symptoms and seeking medical help promptly is key to proper treatment and avoiding complications. That’s where trusted professionals like Josef Schenker, MD come in. With his guidance, we can better understand the measures we need to take to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
Dr. Josef Schenker Explains How to Prevent Influenza
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that attacks the respiratory system — the nose, throat, and lungs. Josef Schenker, MD further explains that flu is different from a cold and typically comes on suddenly. Here’s what you should know:
Common causes:
- Influenza viruses (Type A and Type B)
- Airborne respiratory droplets from an infected person
- Contact with contaminated surfaces
Typical symptoms:
- Fever and chills
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
Now that we know what we’re dealing with, here are the best ways to prevent the flu as explained by Josef Schenker, MD:
1. Get Vaccinated Every Year
The flu vaccine remains your strongest line of defense against influenza. Because flu viruses change constantly, the vaccine is updated each year to keep up with the latest strains. Getting vaccinated doesn’t guarantee you won’t catch the flu, but it greatly reduces your chances of getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, or developing complications like pneumonia. Plus, by getting vaccinated, you’re also protecting those around you, especially people who are more vulnerable, like young children, seniors, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
2. Wash Your Hands Regularly
Handwashing might seem simple, but it’s incredibly powerful. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps remove viruses you may have picked up from surfaces or other people. If soap and water aren’t available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) is the next best thing. Make it a habit, especially before eating, after coughing or sneezing, and after being in public places.
3. Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene
Practicing good respiratory manners helps stop the spread of germs. Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Tissues should be thrown away immediately after use, followed by washing your hands. These small actions protect the people around you — especially in shared spaces like offices, schools, and public transportation.
4. Avoid Close Contact
Whenever possible, keep a safe distance from people showing signs of illness like coughing, sneezing, or fever. If you’re feeling sick, it’s important to stay home and rest. This not only gives your body the chance to heal but also prevents you from passing the virus to coworkers, classmates, and family members.
5. Keep Surfaces Clean
Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for several hours. That’s why it’s important to routinely clean and disinfect high-touch items like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, phones, and keyboards — especially during flu season. Keeping your environment clean reduces the chances of the virus hopping from surfaces to your hands, and then into your body.
6. Boost Your Immune System
Your immune system is your body’s natural defense team. Help it work its best by eating a colorful, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Prioritize sleep, aiming for at least 7–9 hours per night, and exercise regularly to keep your body strong. Managing stress is also crucial, as chronic stress can weaken immune responses. Small daily habits can make a big difference in keeping illnesses like the flu at bay.
7. Wear a Mask if Needed
During peak flu season or if you’re in crowded indoor areas like airports, shopping centers, or public transport, wearing a mask can add an important layer of protection. It’s especially smart if you have a weakened immune system or are caring for someone vulnerable. Masks help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, keeping both you and those around you safer.
Josef Schenker, MD, Explains What to Do If You Catch the Flu
Even if you follow all the precautions diligently, sometimes the flu still sneaks in. Viruses are tricky like that. While many cases are mild, Dr. Josef Schenker says that the flu can worsen quickly and turn into a more serious illness like pneumonia, especially if you have other health issues.
Common symptoms of influenza include:
- High fever
- Severe body aches
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue or weakness
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headaches
- Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
If you suspect you have the flu, here’s what Dr. Josef Schenker advises:
What to do if you catch the flu:
- Rest, rest, and more rest: Your body needs energy to fight the virus.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to prevent dehydration.
- Manage fever and pain: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help.
- Use a humidifier: Moist air can ease a dry throat and nasal congestion.
- Eat nutritious foods: Stick to light, healthy meals that support your immune system.
- Consider antiviral medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs like Tamiflu to shorten the illness if taken early.
- Monitor symptoms carefully: If you experience trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or severe weakness, seek medical attention immediately.
Dr. Josef Schenker emphasizes that it’s crucial not to brush off severe symptoms. Sometimes what seems like a regular flu can develop into complications that require urgent care or hospitalization. Always listen to your body — and when in doubt, reach out for professional help.
Josef Schenker, MD, Answers Frequently Asked Questions:
Influenza mainly spreads through tiny respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch it by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.
Most people start feeling better within five to seven days, although mild symptoms like coughing and fatigue may linger longer. Recovery can vary based on your age, overall health, and how strong your immune system is when fighting off the infection.
Yes, influenza can cause serious complications, especially in vulnerable groups. It may lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections, and worsen existing health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, making early treatment and preventive care extremely important during flu season.
Protect Yourself and Your Family from the Flu
Taking steps to protect yourself from influenza isn’t just about avoiding a few miserable days in bed — it’s about safeguarding your overall health and protecting those around you, especially the most vulnerable members of our community. Prevention, early recognition, and timely action are the keys to minimizing the flu’s impact.
If you or a loved one are experiencing flu symptoms — whether mild or severe — don’t hesitate to seek help from Centers Urgent Care. With locations across New York City, our expert team, led by Dr. Josef Schenker, is ready to provide the care you need, whether it’s for routine symptom management or dealing with more complicated cases. Your health is our top priority — and we’re here to make sure you get back on your feet safely and quickly. Visit us today!
About Josef Schenker, MD:
Dr. Josef Schenker, a board-certified expert in internal medicine and emergency medical services, brings extensive experience and compassion to his role as Medical Director and Partner at Centers Urgent Care. With leadership in SeniorCare Emergency Medical Services and as an Attending Physician at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Dr. Schenker oversees critical care and treatment protocols across varied medical needs. His dedication extends to chairing NYC REMAC, ensuring adherence to state standards in emergency medical procedures. At Centers Urgent Care, Dr. Schenker's expertise ensures prompt, high-quality emergency care for patients of all ages, supported by state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated pediatric suite.
