It’s that time again! The temperature is dropping, the leaves are falling, and, not to be outdone, the germs are spreading. It’s flu season! Yes, that’s right. Flu season starts as early as October in some places in the country and will hang over our heads for another seven months or so. How can we brace ourselves for this season’s strains? The Centers for Disease Control says you need to do your due diligence and get the flu shot. Standard shots and nasal treatments are available in most areas.
Getting the shot, the CDC says, is the best way to prevent the spread of the flu. Think you don’t need to get the shot because you assume everyone else is getting it? Think again. According to the CDC, “When more people get vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through that community.”
Some people are considered “high risk” and should get the flu shot as soon as possible. This includes pregnant women, children between 6 months and 5 years old, and people over the age of 65. Also, if you live with someone who is in a high-risk category, it is recommended by the CDC that you get the flu shot.
Sometimes, though, there’s no avoiding illness. If you do come down with a cold or flu this season, be sure to drink plenty of liquids, stay in bed away from other people, and wash your hands often.
If you have any questions about the flu vaccine or the 2013-14 flu season, contact your local health department or physician’s office.