5 ways to protect yourself from the flu

Each year, the flu virus circulates in communities across the country. Whether you're at school, work or spending time with family and friends, there are steps you can take to lower your risk. One of the best ways is by getting your flu shot every year.

The flu is more than just a bad cold. The influenza virus can cause serious illness and is highly contagious. And while you can't avoid every flu exposure, you can take a few steps to lower your chance of getting sick and spreading the virus to the people around you.

Mohamad Fakih, MD, MPH, Chief Quality Officer at Ascension explains five ways to prepare for flu season — and what to do if symptoms develop.

Why flu prevention matters

Preventing the flu is important, especially for people who have a higher risk of serious complications. In severe cases, the patients may develop pneumonia and may require hospitalization. People who are most vulnerable to complications from the flu virus include:

• Adults age 65 and older
• Children younger than 5 years
• People with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease 
• People who are pregnant 
• People with weakened immune systems

Most people aged 6 months or older should get a flu vaccine every year. Vaccination can lower your risk of getting the flu, reduce the severity of illness if you do get sick and help protect people who are young, older or have chronic heart or lung problems.

5 tips to help prevent the flu

A simple step like getting vaccinated can lower your risk of getting the flu and therefore help reduce the spread. 

“Getting vaccinated is your first line of defense, but healthy habits can also help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses like the flu,” says Dr. Fakih.

He shares a few other ways to help you (and others) stay healthy throughout flu season. 

1. Get your annual flu shot 
   
   Flu season typically lasts from September through March. The best time to get vaccinated is in the early fall, says Dr. Fakih. Getting vaccinated early helps your body build immunity before flu cases increase in your community.
   
   However, getting vaccinated later in the season is better than not at all. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about when or where to get vaccinated. You can also visit your local pharmacy for your flu shot.
   
   
2. Practice good hygiene and wash your hands often
   
   Good hand hygiene is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. You've probably heard this advice before, and that's because it's important when it comes to preventing the flu and other viruses.
   
   “Perform hand hygiene by either using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, or washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing or being in public places,” advised Dr. Fakih.
   
   
3. Avoid touching your face
   
   Your eyes, nose and mouth are common entry points for viruses. That’s why it’s a good idea to try to avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
   
   If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. Then throw away the tissue and wash your hands.
   
   
4. Avoid crowds in close spaces and consider using a mask for protection
   
   When flu activity is high in your community, consider avoiding large crowds especially when indoors. You may choose to wear a mask which helps reduce your risk of being exposed to the virus. Masks also help prevent the spread of the virus to others if someone is infected and are not aware, especially if they are close or taking care of a person with a higher risk of serious illness.
   
   
5. Eat well and keep healthy habits to support your immune system
   
   Healthy living and a good diet help you keep a strong immune system. In addition, making sure you always have the opportunity to rest and avoiding exhaustion help you defend your body from the flu.

When should you talk to a doctor about flu symptoms?

Influenza symptoms can overlap with symptoms of COVID-19, the common cold and seasonal allergies — so it can be tricky to tell if you do have the flu. 

Flu symptoms can often come on quickly and may include:

• Body aches
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat

The good news is that most people who come down with a case of mild flu can recover at home. If you are healthy and suspect that you do have the flu, make sure you are hydrated, stay home and limit close contact with others while you’re sick. 

If you're not sure what's causing your symptoms, call your doctor’s office or make an appointment. If you feel short of breath, weak, or develop high fevers, you may reach out to your doctor or seek care at your local urgent care center. There are medications (antivirals) that can be prescribed for the flu which will help you feel better faster.

Getting a flu shot is always a good idea because it keeps you and those around you well. 

Schedule your flu shot today to receive your influenza vaccine or make an appointment. 

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