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