A recent report from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) shows that flu cases are currently spreading at a high rate across the state. Flu season in the U.S. typically runs from October through May, usually with a peak occurring between December and February. In order to protect yourself, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking some simple, but important, steps.
Cold or Flu? Know the Difference
The flu and the common cold can seem alike at first. However, flu symptoms are usually stronger and appear quickly. Here is a simple way to tell them apart.
Common Cold Symptoms:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Mild sore throat
Flu Symptoms (usually more severe):
- Sudden fever and chills
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Extreme tiredness and body aches
- Sore throat
If you start to feel sick very quickly and your symptoms feel intense, it is more likely the flu.
Fast Flu Facts
- The flu is a respiratory illness. It affects your nose, throat, and lungs, not your stomach.
- You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. The vaccine is made with inactivated virus or does not contain the live virus.
- Antibiotics do not treat the flu because it is caused by a virus, not bacteria.
Top Tips to Help Prevent the Flu
- Get your flu shot. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year.
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Build healthy habits. Eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, stay active, and manage stress. These habits help support your immune system.
- Talk to your healthcare provider. If you have ongoing health conditions, speak with your provider about how to lower your risk and create a care plan.
If You Get Sick
If you do get the flu, take steps to care for yourself and protect others.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.
- Throw away used tissues right away.
- Stay home while you are sick to avoid spreading the virus.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Get plenty of rest so your body can heal.
The bottom line: Getting a flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and keeping healthy habits are the best ways to protect yourself and reduce the number of flu cases. Stay informed, be prepared, and take steps to stay well this flu season.
Make an appointment with Principal Health Clinic today to schedule a flu shot or if you are already suffering from cold or flu symptoms.