10 Things You Didn't Know About The Flu

GoodHousekeeping

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1. The term influenza is the Italian word for "influence":  This refers to the cause of the disease; people used to think that the planets, stars, and moon influenced the flu. 
2. Every year, an average of 5%-20% of the US population contracts the virus
3. Hippocrates first reported a flu-like disease in 412 B.C.: The first documented flu pandemic was in 1580 and it affected more than 90% of the population.
4. It's smart to get vaccinated before October: Although January is a big month for the flu, some outbreaks happen as early as October. Since the antibodies in the vaccine take up to two weeks to develop, doctors recommend getting vaccinated early.
5. There have been 4 major flu epidemics in the last century: The Spanish flu, Asian flu, Hong-Kong flu, and the most recent Swine-flu, which caused over 12,000 deaths worldwide. The Spanish Flu caused the most flu-related deaths ever-about 20 million world-wide in 1918.
6. The flu virus can live on surfaces from 2-8 hours: They live the longest on hard surfaces. Hand sanitizer anyone?!
7. There are 3 different flu viruses-Influenza A, B and C: Influenza A is the most severe, affecting both humans and birds-it was the cause of H1N1 and more. Influenza B is only found in humans and mutates at a slower rate. Influenza C affects humans, pigs, and dogs and is less common than the other two types.
8. There are an unknown number of strains: The flu is always mutating; every year there are 3 or 4 strains identified before vaccine development starts. 
9. During the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918, doctors prescribed either shots of whiskey or no alcohol at all: Some doctors recommended drinking half a bottle of wine a day or a glass of port wine after taking a very hot bath. Many people during that time relied on folk remedies, including eating and bathing in onions. In order to prevent the flu, the Colgate company recommended not wearing tight clothes and shoes as well as chewing food carefully. 
10. You can get your flu diagnosis in as little as 15 minutes: A lot of hospitals and doctor's offices are already using Alere i, which is a device capable of diagnosing the flu in just 15 minutes with a nasal swab. Getting a quick flu diagnosis means that treatment can begin in the first 24-48 hours after infection which is when you need it most. 

Shopping For A Home In The Winter

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Although this weather can be treacherous and the thought of house shopping during the winter can be daunting, there are some benefits to finding your abode this season!

• There are usually fewer buyers in the winter which can mean less competition for you
• Lenders usually have fewer loans to process and less paperwork to do so getting a mortgage can go quicker and smoother than during busier times (Although this can change as rates fluctuate)
• Better interest rates on mortgages
• Faster closings
• Once you buy a home in the winter, you can relax in the summer!

Happy house hunting!

In The Market For A New Washer And Dryer? Read These Tips Before Buying!

Consumer Reports

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• Better efficiency can mean longer wash times: The most efficient washing machines save about $1,400 over a 10 year span and use approximately 110,000 fewer gallons of water than a 10 year old top loader with a center agitator. Another plus to these new machines is that they are better at extracting water so drying time is reduced as are electrical costs. Although these machines clean very well, they typically have longer wash cycles ranging from 65-115 minutes on average, with front-loaders taking longer than top loaders. Washers are increasingly offering 'quick cycles' for smaller loads or lightly soiled loads. Consumer Reports tests found that Kenmore's Accela-Wash, LG's TurboWash, and Samsung's SuperSpeed shaved off about 15-20 minutes from a normal load while still cleaning well.
• Washers are deeper and/or wider: Many manufacturers are making an effort to cut down on the amount of time consumers spend doing laundry by making the washers taller and deeper to increase capacity. This can be a problem for people on the shorter side because it may make getting loads out of the washer a difficult task. When shopping, be sure to reach into the washer; if you can't reach the bottom consider investing in a different model. Also, many washers are now wider than before so if your laundry room is tight, be sure to measure before you buy.
• Waterproof items can create problems: High efficiency top loaders spin quicker and extract more water than regular top loaders, however, water can become trapped in rain coats and other waterproof items, causing the load to become unbalanced. When this happens, the machine can shake too much which can cause damage to the washer and laundry area. Some brands (Maytag and Whirlpool) say their machines can safely handle waterproof items while others (LG) warn against washing these items. Be sure to check the owner's manual before buying.
• No high efficiency dryers yet: Dissimilar to washers, dryers have typically used similar amounts of energy, even the HE dryers, according to Energy Star. Although not here yet, Energy Star-qualified dryers may hit stores soon. 
• Maybe you don't need a new dryer afterall... Although they look different, new dryers and old dryers pretty much still work the same way. They both use moisture sensors to determine how damp the laundry is and it adjusts the drying time accordingly. If your current dryer has a sensor and you don't mind having a washer and dryer that don't match, you can save money and keep your existing dryer until it breaks.Here's a tip though: dryers with sensors are meant to handle full loads. When you dry just a few items at a time, the dryer may shut off before things are dry because the items didn't touch the sensor frequently enough. To avoid this problem, use a timed cycle for smaller loads. Also, dryers with thermostats are not efficient since they dry for a set amount of time, even if the clothes are dry before the timer is up.

4 Cheap Staging Tips

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• Freshen up paint, front door, and hardware: Painting a room is an inexpensive way to instantly update the space. Even if you don't repaint your entire house, painting trim, especially around the front door and windows, will make a big difference. If your front door has seen better days, consider replacing it or giving it a fresh coat of paint. Pay attention to the doorknob as well; clean it so it shines or replace a brass doorknob with a more contemporary brushed nickel one. Replacing switch plates and outlet covers can also do wonders.
• Let the light in: It's important to let as much light as possible in to your home. Add lamps and make sure that they are on when your house is shown. Make sure that blinds are open and that your home is light and airy. If you have dated light fixtures or old fans, consider investing in new ones. Big box stores offer many well priced options that will have a huge visual impact in your home.
• Invest in the kitchen and bathrooms: For many buyers, an updated or at least a very clean kitchen and bathrooms are important. If your bathrooms' tile floors need replacing but you can't afford to, consider digging out the old grout and replacing it with new grout. This can really transform a dated floor into something new. Caulk the shower and the tub; if your bathtub is scratched or chipped you can get it reglazed for under $500. Installing new faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms either yourself or by a professional can really update the room as well.
• Curb appeal: No matter what season you are selling your home in, it's important to pull weeds, mulch, and add colorful plants or flowers (bushes with berries are a good option for the winter). The exterior of your home is the first impression that a buyer gets so make it count!

11 Necessary Tools For Homeowners

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1. Hammer
2. Screwdrivers (Flat head and Phillips)
3. Tape measure
4. Clamps
5. Level
6. Power drill
7. Vise grips
8. Wrench
9. Pliers
10. Staple gun
11. Saw

8 DIY Projects That Typically Require Permits

msn

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These projects usually require a permit, but be sure to check with your local jurisdiction to be sure!

1. Putting in a gas stove
2. Replacing windows or doors
3. Building a deck
4. Putting in a fence
5. Creating a safe room or storm shelter
6. Remodeling a bathroom or kitchen
7. Installing new electrical wiring 
8. Replacing a gas water heater

10 Helpful Hints For Moving With Pets

realtormag

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Moving day is very busy with a lot on the To Do List, but don't forget your pet! There are a few things you can do to make the move go well for your canine friend:

• Make sure your pet's tag is current: Your pet's ID tag should include your phone number, new address, and cell phone number.
• Vet records: If you are moving far enough that you need to get a new vet, be sure to get your pet's records from your old Veterinarian. 
• Stash medication and food with you: In the event of an emergency, it's important to be prepared with the bare essentials of what your pet needs. 
• Create a safe zone: Keep your pet away from all of the craziness and set up a cozy place for them to hang out such as a bathroom.
• First Aid: Be sure to have a few basic first aid supplies on hand in case they are needed. Suggestions include gauze, towels, bandages, 3% hydrogen peroxide, and your vet's phone number.
• Car safety: The safest way for your pet to travel in the car is always a crate, but if that's not possible then use a restraining harness. Put some favorite toys and maybe a blanket with your pet so they are comfortable. Never leave a pet unattended inside the storage area of a van or an open truck bed. 
• If flying: Be sure to check with the airlines about requirements or restrictions about flying with your pet. If flying may make your pet upset, consult with your vet about ways to reduce anxiety and stress.
• New vet/animal hospital: If necessary, find a new place for your pet to receive medical care. Ask your current vet to recommend a new provider in your area and/or talk with other pet owners to get suggestions.
• Help your pet adjust to your new home: As soon as possible after moving, put out all of your pet's items including food, water, toys, etc. Keep windows and doors closed as your furry friend may try to make a run for it. 
• Explore your new locale: Once you find a new vet, find out if there are any special laws in the area regarding pets or any concerns about diseases such as heartworm. Seek out dog parks, pet stores, and other amenities that will help make you and your pet feel at home.