As we move into the colder months, cold and flu season is right around the corner. Flu season typically starts in October and peaks between December and February, making now the perfect time to prepare.
Get Vaccinated Early
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself from the flu and its potentially serious complications, which is why it’s recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the flu vaccine each year. This is especially important for people at higher risk of complications from the flu, such as older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions.
For most people, it’s best to get vaccinated in September or October, as flu season often peaks later in the winter. It takes about two weeks for your body to build antibodies, so getting vaccinated early ensures you’ll have protection when flu season is at its height. However, getting vaccinated later in the season can still provide valuable protection.
Avoid Close Contact & Stay Home When You’re Sick
Reducing close contact with people who are sick can help prevent the spread of germs. If you’re feeling under the weather, stay home from work, school, or other public places to protect those around you. Rest and recover until your symptoms improve and you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
Cover Your Mouth and Nose & Wash Your Hands Frequently
Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and washing your hands regularly are easy ways to prevent the flu from spreading. Use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Practice Good Hygiene and Healthy Habits
Regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces can prevent the spread of germs. It’s also important to maintain healthy habits to keep your immune system strong: get plenty of sleep, stay physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.
FAQ: Can the Flu Vaccine Give You the Flu?
No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. However, some people may develop mild, flu-like symptoms as a reaction to the vaccine, or they may catch the flu before the vaccine has had time to take full effect. It’s also possible to develop other illnesses, such as the common cold, around the same time as receiving the flu shot, which can cause confusion about the vaccine’s effects.
FAQ: Can You Get the Flu Vaccine and COVID-19 Vaccine at the Same Time?
Yes, you can get the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. Both are important for protecting against their respective viruses, and do not interfere with each other. It’s important to note that the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, and the COVID-19 vaccine does not protect against the flu. Each vaccine is designed to target specific viruses, and getting both provides the best protection against illness during the fall and winter months.
Stay Informed and Stay Healthy
By getting vaccinated and following these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of getting sick and help stop the spread of the flu. Protecting yourself also helps protect those around you.
Take action this flu season – get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and stay informed to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy!
