Flu season is here: What you need to know

This article is from Commonwealth Care Alliance. Read more here. 

The flu is short for “influenza.” It’s a viral infection that affects your nose, throat, and lungs. The flu may be more serious for people who are 65 or older or those with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes.

Some racial and ethnic minority groups are at higher risk for hospitalization with the flu. These groups include Black, Hispanic, American Indian, or Alaska Native.

Be sure to talk to your pharmacist or provider to better understand your risk.

 

Fight the Flu and get vaccinated today.

 

Staying up to date with your flu vaccine is important. The vaccine doesn’t just protect you. It can also protect those close to you from getting the flu.

Flu season typically runs from September-May. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a flu vaccine every year for anyone six months or older. The flu vaccine can reduce flu illness, doctor’s visits, and hospitalizations. It may even save your life.

It’s also recommended that people 65 and older and those with chronic conditions or weak immune systems take the high-dose flu vaccine.

 

What to do if you get the flu?

 

The most common flu symptoms include:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Chill and sweats
• Headache
• Dry cough
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Weakness
• Eye pain

Many people who get the flu can treat symptoms on their own without seeing a doctor. If you have the flu, make sure to: rest, drink plenty of water, and stay warm.

If you’re higher risk, influenza antiviral drugs may be a treatment option. These drugs work best when started no later than two days after your symptoms begin. Talk to your provider immediately when symptoms start to better understand your treatment options.

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