Rural Health Matters: Staying Ahead of Cold and Flu Season

As flu season closes in, Dr. Gold outlines the steps to take when you get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — As colder weather sets in, cold and flu cases are expected to rise across the country. On this week’s Rural Health Matters segment on Market Day Report, we turned to the experts at the University of Nebraska to learn how to prepare for the season and protect ourselves and our families.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined RFD-TV News to share what to expect in the months ahead and the best ways to prevent illness. He noted that while cold and flu season follows a familiar pattern each year, early preparation is key to minimizing the spread and reducing the severity of infections.

In his interview, Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of prevention, from simple steps such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to staying up to date on vaccinations. He also addressed the flu shot specifically, urging those who are eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help protect themselves and vulnerable members of their communities.

Dr. Gold discussed the role of COVID boosters this season, advising that individuals should consult their healthcare providers to determine whether they should receive an updated vaccine in addition to their annual flu shot.

Finally, Dr. Gold outlined the steps to take if you do get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold reminded viewers that proactive measures can significantly reduce both the spread and impact of seasonal illnesses. He encouraged everyone to prepare early and take steps to protect their health this fall and winter.

Related Stories
The trip is giving them a firsthand look at farming beyond the U.S.
The non-profit organization is helping feed communities while creating pathways for at-risk youth.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum discusses USDA’s efforts to expand fertilizer capacity, signals for farm profitability, and AFBF’s Farm Bill expectations.
Expanded export financing could provide greater support for ag sales abroad if buyers and lenders use the additional tools.
Authorities say the drones were recovered during a routine inspection after being stolen last month.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Feed demand and premiums drive growth for the crop
Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper joined us to discuss the proposed E15 amendment in the Farm Bill, industry reaction to the legislation, and the outlook for year-round E15 sales.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical, and support operations.
Kansas row crop farmer Brad Keeler joins us to discuss drought conditions, planting decisions, input costs, and overall farmer sentiment in his region.
More Shows
Washington Policy
The latest headlines and information for farmers and ranchers to know about the hotly debated Farm Bill legislation that provides key funding for U.S. agriculture and expired in 2023.
FarmTech is the RFD NEWS hub for the best and brightest new inventions and technology in agriculture.
Follow Aumann Auctions coast to coast on a road trip adventure! Each episode of “Old Iron Adventures” highlights the challenges of hosting an auction. Plus, get behind-the-scenes looks, history lessons & meet a cast of very interesting characters along the way!
“Green Acres” meets “Home Improvement” in this refreshing, informative unscripted lifestyle series depicting the hilarious adventures of a suburban family gone rural.
The goal of “Where the Food Comes From” is as simple as its name implies — host Chip Carter takes you along on the journey of where our food comes from — and we don’t just mean to the supermarket (though that’s part of the big picture!). But beyond where it comes from, how it gets there, and all the links in the chain that make that happen.
Join markets specialist Scott Shellady, better known as the Cow Guy, as he covers the market-close, breaking down headlines that drive the commodities and equities markets with commentary from respected industry heavyweights.
RFD-TV News is proud to provide viewers with gave-to-gavel coverage of the 94th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana (2021).
Tara Beaver Coronado (formerly known as Beaver Vineyards) is a farmer in Northern California. She raises grain crops with her dad. Tara planted her very first vineyard in 2018. Her channel is centered around her daily life on the farm, as well as promoting the diversity and scale of California agriculture.
A few years ago, the Stoney Ridge Farmer moved from a 1/3-acre lot in the city to a 150-acre farm nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Cole Sonne is a fourth-generation farmer living in Southeastern South Dakota. His family farm raises Black Angus bulls and grows alfalfa, grass, hay, corn, and soybeans. Cole says, “I make these videos for your entertainment (and for my own, as well)!”