Arm Yourself With These Helpful Tips To Combat The Early Start To Flu Season

December 5, 2017

Flu season is upon us and in the spirit of National Hand Washing Awareness Week; we’ve put together a few tips on flu prevention.

Should I get vaccinated?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), all healthy people aged 6 months and up should be vaccinated.

Who should not get vaccinated?

Children under the age of 6 months
Those who have ever had a severe reaction to a previous flu shot
Anyone with an allergic reaction to eggs

When should I get my flu shot?

Typically the best time to get the vaccine is in October and November, before flu season peaks. But it’s never too late to protect yourself; many pharmacies offer flu shot clinics, making it convenient for your busy schedule!

Is it true that you can get the flu from the flu shot?

The viruses that make up the shot are inactive, however you can experience a few side effects such as, redness, soreness, swelling at the injection site, or a low fever and achiness.

Who’s at the greatest risk this flu season?

Though we are all susceptible, young children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with chronic health conditions are at the greatest risk.

Is it a cold or the flu?

The symptoms of the common cold and the flu are very similar, if you are unsure if it is the cold or flu, you should contact your doctor with any concerns.

COLD SYMPTOMS	FLU SYMPTOMS
Onset Of Symptoms Is Slow	Onset Of Symptoms Is Sudden
No Or Low Fever	High Fever
Feeling Fatigued Is Mild	Feeling Fatigued Is Extreme
Runny Or Stuffy Nose, Severe Cough	Dry Cough
No Achiness And No Headache	Achy Muscles And Headache
No Chills	Chills

Did You Know?

The flu virus can survive up to 72 hours on surfaces like doorknobs and desks
Antibiotics are designed to kill bacteria, which mean they are not effective against the flu virus
Nearly 22 million missed school days are due to the flu
You can spread the flu before you even know you are sick
It is possible to infect others 5-7 days after symptoms have developed

Prevention:

The first step is vaccination
Wash your hands frequently
Disinfect common surfaces:
- Toys
- Handles
- Phones
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- TV Remote
Cough into your elbow, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
Stay hydrated

If you are sick, the best way to stop the spread of the virus is to stay home and rest up.

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