As the holiday season gets into full swing, the gift of sickness is being passed around from friends and family. Unfortunately, this year it seems to be worse than in recent years. There can be a lot of reasons for this, but it is necessary to note that one thing can help protect our young and elderly from getting to flu so bad they need to be hospitalized. Nobody wants to spend any time in the hospital during this time of year. Read on to learn more about safety precautions, especially the vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control keeps track of weekly influenza statistics. The information is already trending upward for high numbers of the flu and RSV.
Prevention from the flu:
- The flu vaccine
- Washing of hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid large or small gatherings where people may be ill
- Stay home if anyone in the family is showing any signs of the flu
- Coughing
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
How does the protection of the flu vaccine work?
- The influenza vaccine typically prevents about 70 of every 100 people who receive it from developing moderate-to-severe influenza infection.
- Even though the vaccine might not completely prevent influenza infection, it will still lessen the length and severity of the illness.
This shot could be life-saving for our youngest babies to our seasoned adults. It’s not too late to get the flu vaccine.
- Go to your local primary care doctor’s office
- Local Health Department
- Senior Centers
- Drive-thru flu clinics
