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The affect the flu virus has on your body can vary from case to case, with symptoms ranging from mild to more severe. There are several steps to take to prevent catching the influenza virus, including getting an annual flu shot. In order to prevent catching the virus, make sure you follow these steps to prevent falling ill this fall.
Avoid Crowds Whenever Possible
During the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone has been encouraged to practice safe social distancing. This is a practice that should be maintained during flu season as well. The flu is an airborne virus that can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, with the virus transmitted through droplets of moisture that can enter your eyes, nose or mouth. By maintaining a 6-10 foot difference between yourself and others, you will be able to avoid air with the infectant, which can help prevent illness. If you are required to use public transportation to get to and from your job, wear gloves and a protective mask or face covering for added protection against the virus.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Washing your hands is the best thing you can do on a day-to-day basis to maintain your health during flu season. You should make sure you wash your hands frequently throughout the day, including after using the restroom, touching public surfaces, before and after handling food and after coughing or sneezing. Make sure you wet your hands with warm to hot running water before lathering with antibacterial soap. Scrub for at least thirty seconds, concentrating on the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails before rinsing with running water. When running water or soap are unavailable, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content may be used. However, hand sanitizer should not be used as an alternative for washing your hands. Hand sanitizer can only be used to kill and remove germs and will not be able to break down dirt or buildup.
Get an Annual Flu Shot
Getting an annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent contracting the influenza virus. Starting in September, flu shots are available at AFC Urgent Care Louisville for walk-in patients seven days a week. The flu shot prompts your body to begin creating antibodies that will be able to fight against the active, current strain of the flu virus by exposing a weakened or dead strain. Because of the time it takes to create antibodies, the flu vaccine takes about two weeks to be effective, which is why it is recommended to get your flu shot between September and mid-October. By getting a vaccine early, your body will be immune to the virus by the time it begins to quickly spread through your community, office or school.
Walk-In Flu Shots in Louisville, Boulder & Superior, CO
If you are interested in getting a flu shot, visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville today! Our center is open seven days a week and administers flu shots on a walk-in basis. The flu shot is covered by most major insurance carriers, with affordable vaccines available for self-paying patients. For questions, please call 720-961-9700.
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