How to Stay Safe During Flu Season
The arrival of the fall and winter months signals many things, including flu season. Following three seasons of exceptionally high flu activity, the 2020-21 season's activity was historically low, attributed to the many safety measures put in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
However, experts have expressed concern about this year's flu season, as the COVID-19 precautions that helped keep last year's flu cases down have relaxed nationwide. Additionally, the recent spike in COVID-19 cases has caused an increase in hospital patients. If flu activity surges this year, health care systems have the potential to become overwhelmed.
To keep yourself safe this flu season and do your part in preventing hospital overflow, consider these helpful safety tips.
- Get your flu shot. The best way to reduce harsh side effects from the flu is to get vaccinated. This is especially important in reducing your risk of contracting the flu and COVID-19 simultaneously.
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick. If you know someone isn't feeling well, avoid proximity with them. Maintaining your distance from others, especially those under the weather, can help keep you safe.
- Stay home when you're sick. The CDC recommends that individuals who have a fever and respiratory symptoms stay at home until 24 hours after their fever ends (100 degrees Fahrenheit or lower) without the use of medication. However, not everyone who has the flu will have a fever. Other symptoms can include a runny nose, body aches, headache, fatigue, diarrhea or vomiting.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. When using soap and water, rub soapy hands together for at least 20 seconds, rinse with water and dry thoroughly. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub until you wash your hands.
By following the proper safety precautions, you can do your part in protecting yourself and others against the flu. Contact us for more guidance on how to stay safe this upcoming flu season.
Material posted on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a legal opinion or medical advice. Contact your legal representative or medical professional for information specific to your needs.
