By: Dr. Barbara Custer Do you fear the H1N1 flu virus? To put the flu virus into perspective for you, I hope this post creates greater peace and a better understanding for you about what is happening, so that you don’t have to be overwhelmed by fear based on what you have heard in the news recently. Knowledge, preparation, a healthy lifestyle and an understanding of how the body works can help us to eliminate these very fears about this vaccination.

The SARS, Asian and Bird Flu Pandemics

Do you remember the SARS, Asian and Bird Flu pandemics? Every few years there is a new pandemic flu virus that has the potential to cause illness and death. Every winter people are scared and terrorized by the possibilities of the consequences of these viruses. For example, 3 years ago many people felt that the Bird Flu could turn into a pandemic, and that they will have to live in retreats without contact of the outside world. For months it had a negative impact on the psyche of the general public. The poultry market sales also plummeted during this time of panic and it was very scary. A few years earlier it was SARS. Travelers going to and from Asia were even quarantined and detained.

H1N1 Flu Virus

Now we are dealing with the H1N1 flu virus and in reality, every year there are many flu viruses that medicine has to combat. Each type of virus can have severe symptoms such as (high fever, body aches, chills, vomiting) or just symptoms of a common cold. The problem in the society that we live in today is that the media makes these virus’s seem more worse than they realistically are. I do not want to discount the existence and severity of these flu viruses, but instead help you understand that we just need to have a clearer picture about how to take care of ourselves throughout the cold and flu seasons…if we want to stay and function as healthy human beings.

Do You Need the H1N1 Vaccine?

You might consider the vaccine as your best option this year if: -You are a soon to be mother pregnant with a child -Your immune system is already compromised and you have health problems -You work in an environment where you will have a lot of exposure to many individuals on a consistent daily basis… such as in hospitals and schools. Now… If you live a healthy lifestyle you will have a naturally strong immune system that will be able to defend itself. There are also many natural cold and flu preventive and immune tonic formulas that are extremely effective and safe for children as well.

How To Use Chinese Herbal Remedies and Supplements

Herbs and herbal formulas have been used and perfected for thousands of years. Even “Ice Men” had antibiotics and anti viral herbs in their pouches! As someone who specializes in alternative medicine, I suggest that you should support your immune system on a daily basis with Chinese herbs, and high doses of Vitamin C and D throughout the winter. Prevention is always your best medicine. At the first sign of a sore throat, flu or cold symptoms, you can choose to take Chinese herbal formulas. These formulas have been scientifically proven to have a natural antibiotic and anti-viral effect. These products can be purchased at any Health Food Store. Dr. Barbara Custer, L.A.C., O.M.D. was acknowledged by San Francisco Focus Magazine as one of the “Top Alternative Medical Doctors” in the San Francisco Bay Area. She was also voted the “Best of Marin for Oriental Medicine” by the Pacific Sun. Dr. Custer is currently in private practice in Mill Valley California.