The fall season is upon us—bringing crisp mornings, football games, colorful leaves, and of course, pumpkin spice. Unfortunately, it also brings the start of flu season. Cases often begin to rise in early autumn and can last through spring, with peak activity between December and February. While anyone can get the flu, there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and reduce your risk of illness.
Get the Flu Shot
The most effective way to protect yourself and others is by getting your annual flu shot. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older receive the influenza vaccine annually, ideally in September or October. Flu vaccines are widely available at physician offices, clinics, pharmacies, schools, express cares and health departments. The vaccine takes two weeks for antibodies to develop and provide protection against the flu virus.
Stay Home when You’re Sick
If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms—even without a test result—it’s best to stay home from work, school or social events to avoid spreading the illness. The most common symptoms are fever, headache, dry cough, body aches or muscle pain, sore throat and runny nose. If these symptoms develop, rest, hydrate and avoid close contact with others.
Boost Consumption of Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a significant role in supporting your immune system and helping your body fight infections like the flu. It’s a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, supports the production of white blood cells and strengthens the body’s natural defense mechanisms. To boost your vitamin C intake, include foods like oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli and spinach. If you’re not getting enough from your diet, talk with your doctor about whether a supplement is right for you.
Practice Healthy Habits
While these healthy habits are important all year round, they go a long way in preventing the spread of the flu.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.
Go to the Doctor
If you think you have the flu, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor. Your physician will be able to test you, identify any potential risks, and determine whether or not you should take antiviral medication.
Know Your Risks
While anyone can get the flu, some people are at a higher risk of complications. Adults 65 and older, children under 5, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions (like asthma, diabetes or heart disease) can be at higher risk. If you fall into one of these groups, it’s especially important to get vaccinated and talk with your doctor about preventive steps.
Southwoods Express Care is Here for You
If you need a flu shot or think you may already have the flu, Southwoods Express Care is ready to help. With convenient walk-in service, shorter wait times and lower costs than an ER visit, Express Care is open seven days a week in Boardman and Campbell and Monday through Friday in Columbiana.