Today is Veterans Days. Communities across the nation are taking a moment to reflect as we observe Veterans Day, a day set aside to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This date carries a powerful history. Veterans Day began more than a century ago, on November 11th, 1918, when the armistice ending World War I went into effect. It happened at what became known as the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, when the guns finally fell silent across Europe. The first Armistice Day was observed in 1919, and by 1938 it had become a national holiday. But American service didn’t end with World War I. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress expanded the holiday to honor all U.S. veterans. Those who served in peacetime and wartime alike and it officially became Veterans Day in 1954. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives, Veterans Day recognizes those who returned home, the veterans who live and work in our communities, who carried the responsibility of service and continue to shape the nation long after their uniforms are set aside. Across our great country today, ceremonies are being held in many different but meaningful venues. Many communities still encourage a pause at 11 a.m. for a moment of silence, continuing a tradition that began 107 years ago. Veterans Day stands as a reminder that each era of American life is supported by those who stepped forward to serve. On this Tuesday, November 11th, we say thank you to every veteran, from every branch, in every generation.
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It usually starts with one person. Someone comes home from work or school with a cough, a sore throat, or a fever. And before you know it, everyone in the house is reaching for the tissues! In the final installment of our KDOM flu season series, we’re talking about what families can do when influenza makes its way through the front door. Missy Edmundson, Chief Pharmacist at Lewis Family Drug in Windom, says one of the best things you can do is limit contact between the person who’s sick and other members of the household.
“Yeah, if you’re able to, it’s best to kind of quarantine to a different part of the house. That being said, it is kind of hard, but to cover your cough, washing hands frequently, that can help prevent the spread throughout your house.”
And for parents, another difficult decision is knowing when a sick child should stay home from school. Missy says if a child has a fever, is coughing frequently, or hasn’t been able to get adequate sleep, staying home is the better choice. For those already feeling sick, getting enough rest is especially important.
“I would wait it out for a little while and take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating healthy, getting lots of rest at night. Tea, hot tea works really well for a good sore throat, and just getting the best rest you can.”
For otherwise healthy people with mild illness, home care may be enough. But those at higher risk of complications should contact a healthcare provider early, since prescription treatments work best when started promptly. And when asked what she wishes more people understood about recovering from common viral illnesses, Missy offered some simple advice.
“Sleep is probably the best medicine.”
Rest, fluids, good hygiene, and keeping sick family members home can make a difference in preventing the spread of illness. And remember, getting vaccinated remains one of the most important steps you can take to reduce your risk of serious influenza complications. Remember if you have questions your friendly pharmacist is a wealth of information. We hope that you have a uneventful Flu season this year!
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Minnesotans enrolled in MinnesotaCare are being reminded to watch their mail for important renewal information to avoid interruptions in health care coverage. The Minnesota Department of Human Services is mailing annual renewal notices in envelopes marked with a blue circle. Some enrollees will need to complete and return renewal forms, while others may be automatically renewed. State officials encourage recipients to review their notices and respond promptly to ensure continued coverage into the new year. MinnesotaCare provides affordable health insurance to more than 90,000 Minnesotans, covering doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays and other medical services. Enrollees can find renewal information and assistance online at www.mn.gov/dhs/renewmycoverage