Prepare for the Flu Season!

As the summer ends and the weather gets colder, a new season of the flu approaches during September. Flu season is predominantly present during the fall and winter but can still occur year-round. Flu activity peaks between December and February and can last until May.

What is the flu? 

The flu is a virus that is spread by the influenza virus that infects your nose, throat and lungs. People that can be affected by the flu are young kids, those 65 years and older, people with health conditions like heart disease or asthma, and those that are at higher risk of serious flu complications. The best way to avoid getting the flu or having less serious symptoms of the flu is to get the flu vaccine each year. 

What symptoms can I experience with the flu? 

Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of the flu happen right away and include fever or feeling feverish or having chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, feeling tired, some people may have vomiting and diarrhea which happens more in children than adults. 

How does the flu spread? 

The flu spreads by tiny droplets after someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. Droplets can land in people's mouths or nose by being carried in the air by people nearby. Droplets can even land on surfaces or objects. You can get the flu by touching the surface or object that the droplet lands on and touch your nose, mouth or eyes. This could lead to being infected by the flu. Always make sure to wipe down the surface of your home and wash your hands before touching your face or eating.

(Source:  Cold Versus Flu | CDC)