The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that between 5% and 20% of the U.S. population comes down with the flu each year. This means that it’s important to take the proper precautions to protect your family from this common—yet potentially deadly—viral infection.
Precautionary Measures
The flu vaccine is the best protection against the flu. Everyone 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccination every year, ideally before the end of October.
This is especially important for adults age 65 and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and young children. For patients 65 and older, there is a higher dose vaccine that has proved to be nearly 25 percent more effective for that age range.
Spreading the Infection
The flu is very contagious, but some good habits can help prevent the spread of germs. This includes simple measures such as:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Disinfecting objects that may be contaminated with germs
- Covering your cough or sneeze
- Keeping your hands away from your nose, mouth, or eyes
- Staying home when you are sick
- Avoiding close contact with people who have the flu
Flu Symptoms
Think you might have the flu? Watch closely for the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Gastrointestinal problems
If you believe that you or a family member have the flu, call your primary care doctor immediately for testing. If you have a flu diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe you antiviral medication to lessen the severity and length of the illness. You can also go to an urgent care center near you.
Hear From Our Experts
Listen to Dr. Stacy Ross, a family medicine doctor affiliated with UM Capital Region Health Medical Group at Cheverly, discuss why getting the flu shot is important.
