Flu season is here. While the flu typically starts in early fall, most of the time flu season peaks between December and February. It’s important to get a flu vaccine so you’re protected while COVID-19 continues to circulate within our community.
Why get vaccinated?
Influenza, also called the flu, is a viral infection in the nose, throat, and lungs. It is a contagious disease that spreads yearly around the United States. The important piece to note is that anyone can get the flu, but it is dangerous for those that are considered high risk including infants and young children, people 65 years and older, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions or a weakened immune system are at greatest risk.
Yearly, thousands of people in the United States will die from flu and many hospitalized. Getting the flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related visits to the doctor each year.
It is important to get your flu vaccine annually due to the body’s immune response from vaccinations declines over time.
Is it the flu or COVID-19?
COVID-19 and the flu have similar symptoms. If you are feeling ill, come in for an appointment with Avance Care (link to locations page) so we can get you tested and help you feeling better faster. People with the flu often experience fever and chills, body aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and vomiting or diarrhea.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and up. It takes about 2 weeks for protection to develop after vaccination. If you have food allergies, particularly egg allergies, or certain chronic diseases, such as an immune disorder or asthma, consult your doctor first.
What you can do.
- Get your flu shot. Prevention is key and getting your flu vaccination is the first line of defense from getting it. Schedule an appointment today or get your flu vaccine during your routine physical.
- Practice healthy habits. Getting the flu vaccination will help protect you from getting seriously ill or hospitalized. Practicing healthy habits can help stop the spread of germs. Some things you can do is avoid sick people when you can and stay home when you are sick, make sure to cover your nose and mouth with tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your eyes and mouth, and disinfect surfaces such as door handles, tables, and public spaces often.
- Consult your healthcare provider. If you have questions, consult with your primary care provider. We are here to support you and answer any questions you have about your health.
To avoid unnecessary, time-consuming, expensive visits to the emergency room and urgent care centers in the evenings. Our virtual urgent care team is available to care for you virtually from 7 pm to 11 pm on weekdays. Our providers have access to patient medical records, so you can receive personalized care from the comfort of your own home.