How to stay healthy during flu season

As the weather cools, we spend more time indoors with coworkers, classmates, friends and family. That makes it easier for respiratory illnesses to spread. A few practical steps can help you lower your risk this season, starting with an annual flu shot.

Flu can be more serious than a few days of feeling lousy. It can lead to complications and hospitalization, particularly for people at higher risk of severe illness. Flu vaccination reduces the risk of getting sick and can reduce the risk of serious complications. Because the viruses circulating can change from year to year, it’s important to get vaccinated each flu season. The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for most people age 6 months and older.

September and October are generally good times for most people to get their flu shot. If you miss that window, vaccination later in the season can still be worthwhile while flu is circulating.

A flu shot is one part of staying well. Washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you’re sick all help limit the spread of respiratory illnesses. Sleep, nutritious food and regular physical activity support your health through the colder months, too.

Two other steps are easy to overlook:

Give indoor air some attention. When the house is full of people and the windows are shut against the cold, opening a window when practical or running an exhaust fan can bring in fresh air. A portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter is another option for rooms where you spend a lot of time. Cleaner air can help reduce exposure to respiratory viruses.

Know what you’ll do if flu symptoms start. If you’re at higher risk of serious flu complications, contact your health care provider promptly rather than waiting several days to see how you feel. Prescription antiviral medicines work best when started early, and a provider can help decide whether treatment is right for you.

Ready to schedule your flu shot?

Cascade Occupational Health offers flu shots during walk-in hours, and if you’re an employee of the City of Springfield, Springfield School District, or the 4J School District, you can get your shot at the Springfield Wellness Clinic of 4J Wellness Center. Pharmacies or your primary care provider can also help keep you healthy this winter.