MILPITAS, Calif, September 9, 1996 -- This year's flu season, which begins in November and runs through April 1997, is expected to bring three different strains and affect a countless number of people of all ages in the United States.

Anyone can catch the flu, but for those individuals who suffer from such chronic diseases as diabetes, hypertension and asthma, or who are over age 65, the risks are even greater.

Aliza Lifshitz, M.D., noted endocrinologist and diabetes specialist offers the following tips:

• Remember to get a flu shot by the end of November. Flu shots are not recommended for people who are allergic to eggs, or for women in their first three months of pregnancy.

• Because strains of the flu vary from season to season, you must be revaccinated each year.

• If you do catch the flu:

  1. Read labels on all medications.

  2. Decongestants should be avoided if you suffer from either diabetes or hypertension, as they can raise blood pressure levels.

  3. In addition, many cough syrups contain sugar and alcohol, and should also be avoided if you have diabetes.

• Get plenty of rest, drink fluids to avoid dehydration, and try to stick as close as possible to normal eating habits.

• Because of the added stress on the body, diabetes sufferers should remember to self-monitor their blood glucose levels more frequently and to adjust insulin levels accordingly.

LifeScan, a Johnson & Johnson company, is committed to improving the quality of life for people with diabetes by providing a complete family of blood glucose monitoring products to meet different testing needs. Frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose is the key to successful diabetes care. Blood glucose test results help people with diabetes and their healthcare professionals determine the effectiveness of prescribed medication, diet and exercise regimens.

LifeScan can be reached via the internet at http://www.LifeScan.com

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