Fall has officially begun, and flu season is back. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have forgotten about the many other common illnesses we face, including the flu. While you’re masking up and getting vaccinated against the coronavirus, you should also receive the flu vaccination. Get ahead of the curve and get your flu shot now!
Influenza (commonly known as the flu) is a contagious illness that infects the nose, throat and sometimes lungs. The flu can cause mild to severe illness. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly and you’ll feel some or all of these symptoms:
- Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
Through our experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, we now know further information about how to better protect ourselves and others against viruses. Many of our COVID-19 policies also apply to protecting ourselves from the flu.
- Stay home if you are ill especially with a fever 100.4 or above
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
- Use hand sanitizer frequently
- Keep your hands away from your face
- Cough into the crook of your arm
- Wear a mask in public spaces
- Get the flu shot!
Learn more about VNA’s flu services and see our upcoming flu clinics at https://www.vnatc.com/community-services/flu/
