It’s Flu Season! What Can I Do To Keep From Getting It?

The seasonal flu can spread rapidly during holiday celebrations as families and friends gather together.

Patients are flooding clinics this winter presenting with fever, chills, muscle aches, sore throat, runny nose, and cough.

When experiencing certain symptoms, you may feel like you've been hit by a truck.

How does the flu spread?

The flu virus can quickly spread through contact with an infected person.

When an infected person sneezes or coughs, the virus's droplets are released and can be transmitted through direct contact or by touching contaminated objects.

The incubation period for the flu virus is typically 1 to 4 days from exposure to the onset of illness.

How can I prevent getting the flu?

Receiving the flu vaccine and allowing two weeks for immunity to develop is recommended. You can get the flu vaccine as early as September and as late as March.

Wash your hands frequently and minimize contact with individuals who exhibit flu-like symptoms.

If you suspect you have contracted the flu, you should visit your healthcare provider for testing. Testing for flu, COVID-19, and strep throat can help determine treatment.

What do you do if you have the flu?

You are contagious for the first several days of symptoms; reduce the spread of infection by staying home.

Speak to your healthcare provider if treatment with an antiviral is recommended for you, especially if you are at risk for complications.

If you have a fever, do not go out until fever-free for at least 24 hours.

Rest and drink plenty of fluids.

A teaspoon of honey before bedtime can help alleviate cough in adults and older children.

Individuals who are at higher risk include:

• Adults 65 years or older

• Individuals with certain health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.

• If you have a weakened immune system.

• If you are pregnant.

• Children under 5, with the highest risk for infants under six months.

If you are experiencing specific symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, or cough that improve but then return or worsen, weakness or lethargy, or trouble urinating, seek medical care.

As always, I encourage you to stay current on your wellness care and maintain a balanced lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep to maintain your health.