The peak of the flu season may be ending, but that doesn’t mean people are not still at risk.

According to Jane Lux, assistant administrator of the DeKalb County Health Department, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 people die from flu complications each year in the U.S.

“Most healthy people recover from the flu,” Lux said. “Those whose immune systems are compromised, such as very young children and the elderly, are most at risk.”

She recommends that people receive flu vaccinations and work on building healthy immune systems to help prevent contracting the flu.

“Prevention is the best medicine,” she said.

One way that people can help prevent the flu is through proper nutrition.

Amy Ozier, assistant professor in family, consumer and nutrition sciences, said a balanced diet is an important part of strengthening the immune system.

“Looking at the food pyramid for guidance is a good start,” Ozier said. “People should try to eat foods with adequate carbs, protein, antioxidants and

phytochemicals.”

Ozier said fruits and vegetables such as berries, carrots and broccoli are good examples of foods rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals.

A second way to help prevent the flu is by exercising.

“Exercise can help reduce or even cut in half the number of days someone is sick with the cold or flu,” said Amanda Salacinski, professor of kinesiology, nutrition and physical education.

Salacinski said exercise is beneficial because it increases disease-fighting white blood cells and antibody response, which help neutralize bacteria and viruses.

Salacinski suggests that both cardiovascular and weight-training exercises be included in everyone’s workout.

“Cardiovascular exercise will be a little more important in reducing flu symptoms, but weight-training is a very important part of any exercise program and should be included,” she said.

For people who already have the flu, Lux recommends they stay home, contact a physician, sleep and drink plenty of fluids.