Are you looking to make a significant change in your life? Well, look no further than the Mediterranean diet! But wait, there’s more… This way of eating is much more than just a simple meal plan—it’s an entire lifestyle that promotes overall wellness. In this blog post, we’ll explore why the Mediterranean diet is so much more than just food and how it can transform not only your physical health but also your mental well-being. So sit back, relax and let us take you on a journey through one of the world’s most revered diets.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean Diet is perhaps the most popular and well-known dietary pattern around the world. It’s a combination of foods that are typically found in Mediterranean countries, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and moderate amounts of fatty acids. The goal of the Mediterranean Diet is to promote heart health by providing good sources of fiber, healthy fats and proteins, and low levels of unhealthy fats and sugars.

The Mediterranean Diet has been linked with a number of benefits for your overall health. For example:

1) The Mediterranean Diet has been shown to improve heart health by providing good sources of fiber, healthy fats and proteins, and low levels of unhealthy fats and sugars. This type of diet is known to reduce the risk of heart disease by helping to lower cholesterol levels and reducing the amount of bad cholesterol in your blood.

2) The Mediterranean Diet also has been shown to boost the immune system by providing plenty of antioxidants and other nutrients that help protect your body from harmful bacteria and viruses.

3) The Mediterranean Diet has also been linked with reduced rates of obesity and chronic illnesses such as cancer. In fact, studies have shown that people who follow a Mediterranean-style diet are more likely to have a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who eat more traditional Western diets.

The History of the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is not a new concept. However, it has gained popularity in recent years for its many health benefits. The Mediterranean diet features high-quality foods from plants and animals, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and olive oil. It is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and moderate in protein.

The Mediterranean diet has been linked with a wide variety of health benefits. These include lower rates of heart disease, stroke, obesity and cancer. Some of the key reasons the Mediterranean diet is so beneficial are:

•It is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Fiber helps to keep you full longer and can help reduce your risk of heart disease, while antioxidants help to protect your body from damage by free radicals.

•It emphasizes plant-based foods over meat products. Plant-based foods are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and contain little or no fat or cholesterol. They are also low in calories, which can help you maintain a healthy weight.

•It includes moderate amounts of seafoods and other seafoods. Seafoods are a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to promote cardiovascular health (especially when eaten as part of a balanced diet).

•It features minimal use of processed food items. Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats (such as trans fats). Avoiding processed foods can help you stick to the principles of the Mediterranean diet more easily.

The Components of a Mediterranean Diet

A Mediterranean diet has been linked with a host of health benefits, including lower rates of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. It’s not just the food: A Mediterranean lifestyle is also thought to be beneficial. In fact, many components of the Mediterranean diet – from physical activity to stress relief – can help you maintain your overall health. Here are five key components of the Mediterranean diet:

1. Plenty of fruits and vegetables: The Mediterranean diet is high in fruit and vegetables – two-thirds of the recommended daily intake (RDI) for both. This is because these foods are loaded with antioxidants, nutrients, and fiber that can protect your body against disease.

2. Moderate amounts of protein: Just as important as fruits and vegetables are the protein sources in a Mediterranean diet. Lean meats and poultry are a mainstay of the region’s cuisine, but they don’t have to be limited to that category. In fact, whole grains, nuts, legumes, eggs (especially those high in omega-3 fatty acids), and cheese all make great additions to a Mediterranean-style meal plan.

3. Low levels of saturated fat: Saturated fats can increase bad cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease risk; therefore, a moderate amount is recommended in the Mediterranean diet . Most importantly, MUFA (monounsaturated fatty acids) play an important role in promoting heart health by helping reduce LDL

The Benefits of a Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is a way of life that is centered around healthy, whole foods. It emphasizes the importance of plant-based proteins, unsaturated fats, healthy oils, and plenty of antioxidants. These foods help to protect against chronic diseases and promote overall health. Here are some of the benefits of a Mediterranean diet:

1. A Mediterranean diet is linked with a reduced risk for heart disease.

A study published in the journal Circulation found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet were 30% less likely to develop heart disease than those who ate a typical American diet. This protection was seen even after taking into account other factors such as age, sex, and smoking status.

2. A Mediterranean diet is linked with a reduced risk for stroke.

A study published in the journal Stroke found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet were 34% less likely to have a stroke than those who ate a traditional American diet. The difference was even more pronounced when looking at women only – they were 50% less likely to have a stroke on a Mediterranean diet compared to eating a traditional American diet.

3. A Mediterranean diet is linked with improved cognitive performance.

A study published in the journal Age found that people aged 70 or over who followed a Mediterranean diet scored better on tests measuring cognitive function than those who did not follow the dietary pattern. The benefits appeared to be most pronounced in people aged 80 or over.

How to Implement a Mediterranean Diet in Your Life

If you’re looking for a way to improve your health and extend your life, a Mediterranean diet may be the answer. This eating pattern is centered around whole foods, moderate amounts of protein and healthy fats, and plenty of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Here are five reasons why a Mediterranean diet is better for your health:

1) It’s high in antioxidants. A 2010 study found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet had higher levels of antioxidants in their blood than people who ate a Western diet. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can cause chronic diseases like cancer.

2) It promotes weight loss. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume approximately 20-35% of their daily calories from carbohydrates, 10-35% from protein, and 50-70% from fat. A Mediterranean diet is high in carbohydrates (55-65%), low in protein (19-30%), and moderate in fat (20-35%). This combination helps you lose weight because it causes you to burn more calories.

3) It lowers blood pressure. A 2015 study published in The Lancet found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet had lower blood pressure than people who ate a Western diet. This was likely due to the increased intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and olive oil – all sources of potassium – on the Mediterranean diet. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by reducing the amount of sodium excret

Conclusion

The Mediterranean diet is more than just food. It is a way of life that stresses the importance of exercise, socializing, and having balanced lifestyle habits. By following these principles, you can improve your overall health and well-being.

Are you tired of constantly worrying about what’s in your food when dining out? Do you have a food sensitivity that makes eating out a daunting experience? Fret not, because we’ve got some tips and tricks to help you dine out safely! In this blog post, we’ll be sharing our top strategies for navigating restaurants with food sensitivities. From researching menus ahead of time to communicating effectively with the staff, we guarantee these tips will make your next restaurant visit stress-free and enjoyable. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn how to eat out like a pro!

Understanding Food Sensitivities

If you have food sensitivities, dining out can be a daunting experience. However, with a little planning and preparation, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips and tricks for dining out safely with food sensitivities:

1. When making a reservation, let the restaurant know about your food sensitivities. This will allow them to make appropriate accommodations for you.

2. When ordering, be specific about your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about ingredients and preparation methods.

3. Be prepared to bring your own food if necessary. Sometimes it is safest to bring your own meal to avoid cross-contamination or other issues.

4. Be aware of potential triggers when dining out. If you are sensitive to certain ingredients, make sure to avoid them when possible.

5. Communicate with your server throughout the meal. If you have any concerns, make sure to let your server know so that they can address them promptly.

Restaurant etiquette

When dining out with food sensitivities, it is important to be aware of restaurant etiquette. Here are some tips and tricks to help you dine out safely:

1. When making a reservation, let the restaurant know about your food sensitivities. This will allow the staff to be aware and make accommodations as necessary.

2. When ordering, be specific about your needs and requirements. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about ingredients and preparation methods.

3. Be considerate of other diners by not making a fuss or drawing attention to your food sensitivities.

4. If you have any concerns or reactions after eating, discreetly inform the manager or staff so they can take appropriate action.

How to order

When dining out with food sensitivities, there are a few things you can do to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. First, call ahead to the restaurant and speak to the manager or chef about your dietary needs. They should be able to accommodate you and make sure that your food is prepared safely. Second, when ordering, be specific about your needs and what you can’t eat. This will help the kitchen staff avoid any mistakes. Finally, when the food arrives, take a moment to inspect it and make sure that everything is as it should be. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask for a replacement dish. With these tips in mind, you can dine out safely and enjoyably with food sensitivities.

What to avoid

As someone with food sensitivities, dining out can be a bit of a minefield. You never know what ingredients are lurking in your food, and even if you ask the waiter, they may not be able to give you an accurate answer.

To play it safe, there are some things you should avoid when dining out:

-Buffets. All those different dishes sitting out in the open? No thank you. Buffets are a breeding ground for cross-contamination.

-Sauces and dressings. These are often loaded with hidden ingredients that can trigger a reaction. Stick to simple preparations or ask for them on the side so you can control how much (if any) you use.

-Dairy. Dairy is one of the most common food allergens, so it’s best to steer clear of it when dining out. This includes things like cheese, milk, and butter. Check ingredient lists carefully before ordering anything that might contain dairy.

-Gluten. Gluten is another common allergen, and it’s often found in breads, pastas, and sauces. If you’re gluten-sensitive, be sure to ask about gluten-containing ingredients before ordering anything.

Conclusion

Dining out with food sensitivities can be a challenge, but it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your food-filled evenings. With the right tips and tricks under your belt, you’ll be able to find restaurants that are better for accommodating your dietary needs and keep meals enjoyable for everyone involved. So next time you’re looking forward to an evening outing, don’t forget these helpful dining tips so that you stay safe and enjoy every bite.

Introduction

As if the pandemic wasn’t enough, there’s another viral outbreak looming over our heads – bird flu. With several countries already reporting cases of avian influenza in poultry farms and wild birds, it’s time to take a closer look at how this disease could impact not only the food industry but also us as consumers. From skyrocketing prices to supply chain disruptions, here’s everything you need to know about the potential consequences of a bird flu outbreak on our plates.

What is the Bird Flu?

The bird flu is a highly contagious virus that affects birds. It can be deadly to birds and has the potential to infect humans. The bird flu has been found in poultry in many countries, including the United States. Outbreaks of the bird flu have occurred in poultry farms, and the virus has also been found in wild birds.

The bird flu is caused by a type of influenza virus that is able to infect birds. The virus is spread through contact with infected birds or their feces. The virus can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as chicken coops or equipment. Humans can become infected with the bird flu if they have direct contact with sick birds or their environment. In some cases, people have become infected after eating contaminated poultry products.

Most people who become infected with the bird flu will recover within a week. However, some people may develop serious respiratory illness, such as pneumonia, and may require hospitalization. There is currently no vaccine available for the bird flu, so it is important for people to avoid exposure to sick birds and their environments.

How Does the Bird Flu Affect Humans?

When it comes to the bird flu, there are a lot of unknowns. However, what we do know is that the avian influenza virus has the potential to cause serious illness in humans. The good news is that so far, most cases of human infection with the bird flu have been mild. However, there have been some very severe and even fatal cases reported.

The main concern with the bird flu is that it could potentially mutate into a form that is easily spread from person to person. If this were to happen, it could lead to a global pandemic. In such a scenario, the food industry would be impacted in a number of ways.

First, there would likely be a decrease in demand for poultry and poultry products as consumers would be fearful of contracting the virus. This could lead to supply shortages and price increases for these items. Additionally, restaurants and other food businesses that serve chicken or duck dishes would likely see a decline in customers.

Second, increased sanitary measures would need to be put in place throughout the food supply chain to prevent the spread of the virus. This could result in higher costs for producers and processors as they would need to invest in additional cleaning and disinfecting supplies and equipment.

Third, if the virus were to spread widely among humans, it could lead to widespread panic and disruption. This could lead to disruptions in food production and distribution as people stay home from work and limit their travel. Additionally, hoarding of food

What are the Symptoms of the Bird Flu?

The symptoms of the bird flu include fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the virus can lead to pneumonia and death. The majority of human cases have been linked to contact with infected birds, but there is a small risk that the virus could mutate and spread between humans. The bird flu is most commonly found in Asia, Africa, and Europe, but it has also been found in the United States.

How is the Bird Flu Treated?

There is no specific treatment for the bird flu, and most people who contract the virus will recover on their own. However, severe cases may require hospitalization and treatment with antiviral medications. In some cases, the bird flu can lead to pneumonia and other serious respiratory infections, which can be fatal.

What are the Potential Complications of the Bird Flu?

The bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a virus that primarily affects birds. However, in rare cases, it can infect humans who have contact with infected birds or surfaces. The current outbreak of bird flu began in China in December 2019 and has since spread to several other countries, including the United States. While the virus does not typically cause severe illness in humans, it can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death. The bird flu is considered a pandemic threat because it has the potential to mutate into a form that could easily infect humans and spread quickly around the globe. There is currently no vaccine or treatment for the bird flu, making prevention the best method of protection.

How Can I Prevent the Spread of the Bird Flu?

The bird flu is a highly contagious virus that can infect both wild and domestic birds. While the majority of bird flu viruses do not cause serious illness in humans, some strains can be deadly. The H5N1 strain of the bird flu, for example, has killed hundreds of people since it first emerged in 1996.

There is currently no vaccine available for humans to prevent the spread of the bird flu. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection:

• Avoid close contact with sick or dead birds.

• If you must handle sick or dead birds, wear protective clothing, including gloves and a face mask.

• Clean and disinfect any areas where sick or dead birds have been present.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling sick or dead birds.

What Should I Do if I Think I Have the Bird Flu?

If you think you have the bird flu, it is important to see a doctor right away. The bird flu is a serious respiratory illness that can be deadly in some cases. There are currently no treatments or vaccines available for the bird flu, so it is important to get medical help as soon as possible.

There are a few things you can do to help prevent the spread of the bird flu. First, if you are sick, stay home from work or school and avoid contact with other people. Second, wash your hands often and avoid touching your face. Third, if you have chickens or other birds, make sure to clean their cages regularly and watch for signs of illness.

The bird flu is a serious disease that can have devastating consequences for both humans and animals. If you think you may have the bird flu, it is important to seek medical help right away and take steps to prevent its spread.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while avian influenza is still a relatively rare event in the United States, it’s important to understand how an outbreak could affect both food industry stakeholders and consumers. The potential impacts of an avian flu outbreak are far-reaching — from economic losses for farmers and food producers to widespread changes in consumer behavior. Fortunately, with proper preventive measures taken by government agencies and other organizations, bird flu can be contained quickly before it has a chance to cause significant damage.

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions: Understanding the Truth Behind Covid’s Origins

As the world continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, theories about its origins have flooded our newsfeeds and sparked heated debates. But with so much conflicting information out there, it’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed. That’s why we’re here today – to dive deep into the facts and debunk common myths surrounding Covid’s origins. From lab leaks to animal transmission, we’ll explore what we know (and don’t know) about this deadly virus, separating fact from fiction once and for all. So buckle up, take a deep breath, and let’s get started on demystifying one of the biggest mysteries of our time!

What is the coronavirus?

The coronavirus is a virus that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is a member of the family of viruses that includes the common cold and the flu. The coronavirus is spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, or blood, from an infected person. It can also be spread through contact with objects or surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness, including pneumonia, and can be fatal. Early symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Where did the coronavirus come from?

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is believed to have originated in bats. However, the exact origin of the virus is still unknown. The first cases of COVID-19 were reported in China in December 2019, and the virus has since spread to over 200 countries and territories.

Who is most at risk from the coronavirus?

There are many factors that contribute to someone’s risk of contracting the coronavirus, including age, underlying health conditions, and exposure to the virus. However, certain groups of people are more likely to experience severe illness if they contract the virus, including older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

While anyone can develop severe illness from the coronavirus, some people are more at risk than others. Older adults and people with chronic medical conditions are more likely to experience complications from the virus, and pregnant women may also be at a higher risk. It’s important for everyone to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, but those in high-risk groups should be especially cautious.

If you’re over the age of 60 or have a chronic medical condition, it’s important to take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the coronavirus. Limit your time in public places, wear a face mask when around others, and wash your hands often. If you must go out in public, try to avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay six feet away from others as much as possible. These simple measures can help protect you from contracting the virus or experiencing severe illness if you do become infected.

What are the symptoms of the coronavirus?

The symptoms of the coronavirus are fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can appear anywhere from two to fourteen days after exposure to the virus. The majority of people who become infected will only experience mild symptoms, however, some people may develop more severe respiratory illness, such as pneumonia. In rare cases, death can occur. Symptoms of the coronavirus are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, such as the flu or a cold, so it can be difficult to diagnose without a test. If you think you may have been exposed to the coronavirus, it is important to see your healthcare provider and get tested.

How can you protect yourself from the coronavirus?

One of the best ways to protect yourself from the coronavirus is to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of six months get a flu vaccine every year. There are two types of vaccines available: the trivalent vaccine, which protects against three strains of influenza, and the quadrivalent vaccine, which protects against four strains. The quadrivalent vaccine is recommended for people over the age of 65 and for anyone with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or asthma.

In addition to getting a flu vaccine, you can also take steps to prevent the spread of infection. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands). Avoid close contact with people who are sick. And clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.

If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever has gone down without the use of fever-reducing medication. This is to prevent you from spreading the virus to others.

What is the treatment for the coronavirus?

There is currently no specific treatment for the coronavirus, and there is no vaccine available to prevent its spread. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the respiratory system. This can be done with supportive care, such as oxygen therapy and pain relief medication. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide more intensive respiratory support. There is ongoing research into potential treatments for the coronavirus, but at this time there is no cures or prevention methods available.

Are there any long-term effects of the coronavirus?

The coronavirus is a novel virus and, as such, we do not yet know all of its long-term effects. However, preliminary research suggests that the virus may cause long-term immunosuppression, which could make people more susceptible to other infections in the future. Additionally, the virus may cause long-term damage to the lungs and other organs. While more research is needed to understand all of the potential long-term effects of the coronavirus, it is clear that this virus has the potential to cause serious health problems down the road.

Conclusion

Understanding the truth behind Covid’s origins is key to our efforts in fighting this global pandemic. We must continue to challenge the myths and misconceptions that have been propagated about its origin, as they can create confusion and impede our progress towards a better future. With accurate information at hand, we are empowered to act more safely and responsibly while taking steps towards improving public health outcomes. By staying informed, we can all make sure that everyone remains safe during these trying times.

It’s that time of year again! The flu season is upon us, and it’s time to start taking preventative measures against this pesky virus. While getting a flu shot is always recommended, there are other steps you can take to boost your immune system and ward off illness. One of the best ways to do so? Incorporate these five foods into your diet for a stronger immune system. Not only are they delicious and nutritious, but they also pack a powerful punch when it comes to protecting your body from harmful germs and viruses. So grab a pen and paper (or bookmark this page!) because you’re going to want to add these items to your grocery list ASAP!

Introducing the 5 Flu-Fighting Foods

When it comes to fighting the flu, your diet plays a big role in keeping your immune system strong. Introducing the 5 flu-fighting foods that you should add to your diet this winter:

1. Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits and other citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps boost immunity.

2. Garlic: This pungent little vegetable is a powerhouse of immunostimulant compounds, including allicin and Sulphur-containing compounds. Garlic is known to help fight off infections, so make sure to include it in your meals this winter.

3. Green tea: Green tea is rich in catechins, which are antioxidants that have been shown to improve immune function. Make yourself a cup of green tea each day to help fight off the flu virus.

4. Spinach: This leafy green vegetable is loaded with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, beta-carotene and iron. All of these nutrients are essential for a healthy immune system. Add spinach to your salads or sauté it as a side dish this winter.

5. Yogurt: Yogurt contains live bacteria that can help fortify the gut microbiome, which is important for overall health and immunity. Choose yogurt with live cultures for the most benefit and enjoy it as part of a healthy breakfast or snack this winter season

How these Foods Help to Fight the Flu

There are many foods that can help to fight the flu, and they do so in different ways. For example, some foods contain nutrients that support the immune system, while others have antiviral or antibacterial properties.

Some of the best foods for fighting the flu include:

1. chicken soup: Chicken soup has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce symptoms of the flu. It is also a good source of protein, which is important for maintaining a strong immune system.

2. garlic: Garlic contains compounds that have antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is also a good source of vitamins C and B6, both of which are important for supporting the immune system.

3. yogurt: Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that can help to fight infection and support a healthy immune system. It is also a good source of protein and calcium.

4. green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help to protect cells from damage and support a healthy immune system. It is also a good source of flavonoids, which are compounds with antimicrobial properties.5

Tips for Incorporating these Foods into Your Diet

There are a few easy ways to add these foods into your diet to help fight the flu.

-Add garlic to your nightly pasta dish or sauté it with some vegetables as a quick and easy side.
-Slice up a grapefruit and add it to your breakfast yogurt or oatmeal for a boost of Vitamin C first thing in the morning.
-Swap out your afternoon snack for a handful of almonds, which are packed with Vitamin E.
-Sneak some kale into your lunchtime wrap or sandwich for an extra dose of antioxidants.
-End your day with a cup of green tea, which is full of immunity-boosting compounds.

Recipes featuring Flu-Fighting Foods

When it comes to fighting the flu, what you eat can make a big difference. Incorporating flu-fighting foods into your diet is a great way to boost your immune system and help your body fight off infection. Here are some recipes featuring flu-fighting foods that you can add to your diet:

1. Chicken soup – This classic comfort food is packed with nutrients that help support the immune system, including chicken, vegetables, and garlic.

2. Citrus fruits – Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is known for its immunity-boosting properties. Add fresh citrus fruit to your breakfast or lunch for an extra dose of vitamin C.

3. Yogurt – yogurt contains probiotics, which are live bacteria that support gut health – and a healthy gut is essential for a strong immune system. Enjoy yogurt as a snack or add it to smoothies or other recipes.

4. Green tea – green tea is loaded with antioxidants that can help protect the body against infection and disease. Sip on green tea throughout the day or enjoy it as part of a healthy meal or snack.

5. Salmon – salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining a healthy inflammatory response in the body. Enjoy salmon baked, grilled, or smoked for a delicious and nutritious meal option.

Conclusion

As we have seen, adding the right foods to your diet is a great way to help strengthen your immune system and protect yourself from getting sick. Eating more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats can give you the nutrients you need to fight off germs and keep your body healthy. So make sure that these five powerhouse foods are on your grocery list if you want to stay fit and avoid catching the flu this season!