It seems that reports of the flu start coming earlier and earlier every year, making each flu season feel even longer than the one before. When flu season strikes, it is important to do everything you can, both to prevent yourself from getting sick and prevent transmitting the disease to others.
So what are the best ways to stay safe? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Levittown shares some insight.
What to Do During Flu Season
1. Get Your Flu Shot
When it comes to preventing yourself from getting the flu, getting your annual flu shot is the No. 1 thing to do. Though there are many strains of the flu virus, getting your flu shot can reduce the time you are sick, lessen the severity of your symptoms and improve your chances of not being hospitalized because of the flu.
Getting your flu shot early is best - the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting it by the end of October - but getting it at any point will reduce your chances of getting sick as well as passing it along to others.
2. Be Cautious About Germs
Those infected with the flu do not have to show symptoms to be able to pass the virus on to others, so staying vigilant about stopping the spread of germs at all times is your best bet.
Wash your hands thoroughly and often and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when possible. If you believe you are infected with the flu, stay home unless it is to go get medical treatment.
3. Seek Medical Treatment if You Become Infected
If you suspect that you have the flu, seeing your doctor quickly is key. Because of antiviral drugs now on the market, seeing your doctor and taking these medications as directed can reduce the time you are sick and prevent you from passing the flu along to others.
Symptoms of the Flu
If you are worried you may have been infected with the flu, watch out for these flu symptoms:
- A fever over 100.4 F
- Body aches and fatigues
- Headache, chills and nausea
- Sore throat, nasal congestion and persistent cough
If you still need to get your flu shot or are worried you might have the flu, reach out to us right away at AFC Urgent Care Levittown so we can provide you with the care you need.
