Just hearing the word “flu” or “influenza” is enough to make anyone cringe. Although the length and time of flu season can vary, it generally begins as early as October and peaks in January and February. Flu symptoms include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Extreme fatigue
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Nasal congestion
So now that flu season has arrived, follow our flu prevention tips in order to avoid being quarantined in your room watching Hugh Grant movies with a box of tissues.
Flu Prevention Tip #1: Get a Flu Shot
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you get a flu shot once a year. A flu vaccination is not 100 percent effective at preventing the flu because there are many different flu viruses and the vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be the most common. The CDC recommends everyone older than 6 months should get the seasonal flu shot. However, some groups of people are at a higher risk than most.
You are at higher risk and it’s particularly important you visit a nearby flu shot clinic and get the flu vaccine if you:
- Are pregnant
- Live with or care for infants 6 months old and younger
- Have a medical condition that increases the chances of flu-related complications (chronic conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, etc. increase your risk of influenza)
- Have a job that involves emergency medical or healthcare services
If you need a flu shot in the Washington, DC area, visit our walk-in flu shot clinic in Kensington, MD. We offer the flu shot for $25.
Flu Prevention Tip #2: Prevent the Spread of Germs
In order to prevent the spreading germs and potentially the flu, you should make sure to do the following:
- Avoid contact with others if you have flu symptoms.
- Cover your cough and cover your nose and mouth when sneezing.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. This will help prevent the germs on your hand from spreading to other parts of your body.
Flu Prevention Tip #3: Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
There are several steps you can take to boost your immune system and help prevent the flu. These steps include:
- Making sure you get your daily recommended amount of vitamins and minerals through your diet and supplement where you might be lacking. You should also increase your dosage of vitamin C during flu season. Also consider supplementing vitamin D during the winter months, when you don’t take in as much sunlight.
- Exercising every day. This helps reduce stress, which can weaken your immune system.
- Getting enough sleep! Proper rest will help your immune system recharge itself.
If you want to know more about flu prevention, contact Fast Track Urgent Care today. If you’re interested in getting the flu shot or flu mist, visit our Kensington, Maryland walk-in flu shot clinic today!
