Writer / Jane Forni, Registered Nurse and Infection Preventionist at IU Health West Hospital
Photography Provided
As the weather gets colder, you may hear of more and more people getting the flu. Influenza, better known as the flu, is a contagious and potentially serious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications. While the virus is detected year-round, the flu typically circulates during the fall and winter months. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
Know the common flu symptoms.
Common symptoms of the flu include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Not everyone with flu has a fever, and some people have vomiting and diarrhea, which is more common in children than adults. When severe enough, symptoms of the flu can require hospitalization. Without proper care, the flu can be deadly. Seek medical attention for high fevers, or if you have other medical conditions that the flu may complicate including diabetes, asthma or congestive heart failure. You can get the flu multiple times each year.
Flu shots are recommended.
Each year, scientists develop a new flu shot to cover the most common strains of the flu. The first step in avoiding sickness is to get the most current flu vaccine. Getting a flu shot may not make you completely immune from getting sick, but it can significantly lessen the severity of your symptoms.
Take other steps toward flu prevention.
You can also take everyday measures to limit the spread of germs. Stay out of close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, limit contact with others, especially those at increased risk of severe illness. Remember to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, cover your coughs and sneezes, and do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. It’s also important to clean and disinfect surfaces, especially during flu season. If you do get sick with the flu, antiviral medications prescribed by your health care provider may help reduce the time you are sick and may also help prevent serious flu complications.
If you are feeling any flu-like symptoms, make sure you discuss them with your health care provider sooner rather than later.
