ARE YOU PREPARED FOR FLU SEASON?

Have you gotten your flu vaccine? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone 6 months or older should get a flu shot, especially people at high risk for developing serious complications from influenza: young children, adults over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and lung disease.  

Flu activity most commonly peaks in the U.S. between December and February but can continue as late as May. The CDC confirmed that the influenza epidemic began earlier this year.  

If you think you have the flu, visit your doctor as soon as possible. They may be able to prescribe antiviral drugs to treat flu illness and prevent serious flu complications. High-risk individuals with the flu are particularly in need of prompt treatment. Adults are contagious one day before getting symptoms and up to five days after getting sick. 

The flu is different from a cold. It typically comes on suddenly, and symptoms include the following: 

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills (*not everyone with flu will have a fever)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

There are three main things you can do to be safe this flu season:

1. Vaccinate—Get the flu shot for yourself and everyone in your family. It’s available at your doctor’s office and many urgent care centers in our area, with many offering same-day appointments.
2. Get treatment—If you do get the flu, your doctor can prescribe antiviral medication to treat flu illness and prevent serious flu complications. It’s important to treat high-risk individuals promptly to avoid hospitalization.
3. Prevention—Stay away from sick people and wash your hands frequently to reduce the spread of germs. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze, and resist touching your eyes, mouth and nose. Avoid close contact with people who have the flu or symptoms; and if you’re sick with the flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading it to others.