It’s beginning to look a lot like … flu season?

Yes, it’s true, as you plan gatherings for the holiday season, it’s also important to protect yourself from influenza.

Flu season tends to start in the fall and peak between December and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, although the spread of the virus has been less predictable since COVID. The respiratory virus can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms, which often strike suddenly. Those symptoms can include fever/feeling feverish and chills, a cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, aches, tiredness and possibly even vomiting and diarrhea (those last two are more common in kids). Getting the flu can be especially risky for people 65 and older, people with other health conditions and children younger than 5 (especially those younger than 2).
It’s important to know that when it comes to flu, there are a number of actions you can take that can help protect you from getting and spreading the virus. We’ve put together a list to help you try and stay flu-free this holiday season and beyond.

Get your flu vaccine.

It’s not too late to be vaccinated against the flu. In fact, it’s encouraged. The CDC and Alabama Public Health agree that just about everyone six months and older should get their flu vaccines. By getting vaccinated, you can protect yourself from getting sick, or from getting severely sick, and also help to stop the spread of the flu. While you’re at it, talk to your primary care physician or pharmacist about other vaccinations you should get to help keep you healthy this winter.

Keep your distance from people who are sick.

The experts believe that the flu spreads through tiny droplets transmitted by a sick person through coughing, sneezing or just talking. If you know that a person is sick, stay away in order to protect yourself and the people in your circle.

Stay home if you are sick.

If that sick person is you, then stay home, yourself, so that you don’t make other people sick. If you must be in public, be sure to cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, and avoid contact with other people to try and stop the spread.

Wash your hands frequently.

Soap and water can keep those germs away! Remember to scrub-a-du-dub for at least 20 seconds. And if you haven’t just washed your hands, avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth and other parts on your face to avoid spreading germs that could potentially make you sick. If soap and water aren’t readily available, use hand sanitizer on your hands.

Take care of yourself.

Commit to everyday health habits that can help boost your immune system, like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing your stress and getting enough sleep. In addition, make regular appointments with your primary care provider to make sure that you’re staying on top of all of your health screenings, vaccinations and other important health decisions. All of these actions can help you feel better and give your body the boost it needs to stay healthy.

Ask your healthcare provider about antiviral medication options.

If you become ill with the flu or with another sickness caused by a respiratory virus, talk to your healthcare provider about what options you have. He or she may be able to prescribe an antiviral drug that could help you feel better, quicker. This could be especially helpful if you fall into the “high risk” category for flu.

When you’re sick, know when to seek help.

While the above precautions can help protect you from the flu, some people will still become ill this season. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with the warning signs and symptoms that could signal an emergency. If you or your family members experience any of the following complications outlined by the CDC, find medical help right away.

Complications for children that should lead you to seek immediate treatment:

  • Fast breathing
  • Trouble breathing
  • Lips or face appear blue
  • Chest pain
  • Ribs that pull in with every breath
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Dehydration
  • Lack of alertness or interaction when awake
  • Seizures
  • A fever that is above 104 and not controlled by medicine that reduces fevers; or any fever in a child 12 weeks or younger
  • A fever or cough that appears to improve but then returns and even worsens
  • A decline in other chronic medical conditions

Complications for adults that should lead you to seek immediate treatment:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Ongoing pain or pressure in chest or abdomen
  • Continuing dizziness, confusion
  • Seizures
  • Inability to urinate
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Weakness or unsteadiness that is severe
  • A fever or cough that seems to improve but then returns or even worsens
  • A decline in other chronic health conditions

Getting the flu is no fun. It can wipe you out for days, or even weeks. This winter, make an appointment to get the flu vaccine and take as many precautions as you can to stay healthy. Don’t forget that winter is also prime time for other respiratory viruses, including RSV, COVID-19 and even the common cold. Consider your risks before going into crowded businesses or parties, and decide what’s best for you. And keep in mind how important your health and wellness are. In fact, taking actions to stay healthy could be the best gift of the season, for yourself and for your entire family.