Supporting Seniors During Flu Season: Tips And Resources

According to the CDC, the influenza virus can affect anywhere from 9.3 million to 41 million people annually. Everyone is at risk for the flu, but it’s detrimentally more serious for older adults, with more than 70 percent of flu-related hospitalizations being for those 65 years and older.

The flu can be a serious health concern, but there are ways to reduce your chances of getting the flu and stay healthy. Now that fall is in full swing, it’s time to take precautions to lower your risk of influenza (flu) and other common viruses.

What Is The Flu?

The flu is a respiratory illness that primarily affects the nose and throat. Common signs and symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and headaches. Some people experience vomiting or diarrhea, although those symptoms are more common among young children than adults.

The flu is caused by influenza viruses that spread from person to person through droplets when a sick person coughs, talks, or sneezes near a non-sick person. Sometimes, the flu can spread from someone touching a surface containing flu droplets, then transferring the virus to themselves by touching their nose or mouth.

Do Flu Shots Work?

The flu vaccine is a vaccine that reduces flu-related illness and the risk of complications. There are three types of flu vaccines approved in the United States:

Egg-based flu vaccine
Cell culture-based flu vaccine
Recombinant flu vaccine

All three types are safe and FDA-approved. They generally work the same way. Some people experience flu-like symptoms after a shot, but they are significantly less intense than the flu and tend to disappear after a few days.

While doctors often recommend getting flu shots, they are unsafe for individuals with life-threatening allergies to ingredients within the flu shot. It’s also important to talk to your doctor about any medications or health concerns before getting a flu vaccine to ensure it’s safe for you.

Where To Get A Flu Shot

Many places throughout Daphne, Alabama, provide flu shots. Most people get their flu shots from a nearby Walgreens or CVS. You can schedule an appointment or walk in. Wait times can vary, but they are typically pretty quick appointments.

You can also get a flu shot from your primary care physician. Many doctors ask if you want a flu shot during your annual check-up. You can view a full list of flu vaccine providers in Alabama here.

What If I Get The Flu?

Even if you have a flu shot, it’s still possible to develop it. If you start feeling flu symptoms, consider these tips from the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

Go to the doctor within 48 hours of symptoms. It’s important to start treating symptoms as soon as possible, especially if you are 65 or older.
Get plenty of rest. Rest is one of the best things you can do for your body to help it recover from the flu.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids with electrolytes.
Take fever reducers. If you have a fever, take fever reducers like Tylenol or Advil.

Care Through Recovery With Visiting Angels

Taking care of yourself when you have the flu can be challenging, but the caring team at Visiting Angels is here to help. Our caregivers are happy to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, assist with household tasks like cleaning and cooking, and remind you of medication. If you’re fatigued, we can assist with personal grooming, mobility, and bathroom duties.

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