Flu Prevention: Tips For Staying Healthy During Flu Season
As the weather begins to drop and winter rolls into the Colorado mountains, the influenza virus and flu season also rise.
The flu is estimated to cause 9 to 41 million illnesses in the United States annually. Many of those affected experience mild symptoms that can last days to several weeks. The flu is also associated with high hospitalization rates, especially among adults 65 and older.
Although Covid may have taken center stage over the last several years, the flu is still a risk for seniors and immune-compromised individuals. If you need a reminder on which symptoms are typical for the flu, read on for signs, and helpful preventative measures to keep the flu at bay in your household this year.
Flu Signs And Symptoms
The flu is a respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms. Symptoms can vary among individuals but are often more severe among older adults. Symptoms of the flu can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
The flu is treatable but also life-threatening, especially for older adults with chronic health conditions. If you are experiencing flu symptoms, call your doctor immediately for advice.
Flu Prevention Tips
The flu is so contagious, it can be hard to avoid, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of contracting it. A few tips from the CDC to stay healthy this season include:
- Avoid close contact with individuals who have the flu or flu-like symptoms. The flu is a virus that primarily spreads through tiny droplets that people produce when they talk, sneeze, or cough. Staying at least six feet away from people with the flu or with flu-like symptoms makes it more difficult for you to come into contact with these infected droplets.
- Wash your hands. While the primary way people pass the flu is through contact or close contact, you can contract the flu by touching an infected object or area. Handwashing can help kill germs and bacteria that may lead to the flu. Always wash your hands after you’ve been outside or interacting with others, even if they don’t appear sick.
- Avoid touching your face. Germs spread faster when you touch something infected and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes.
- Sanitize high-traffic areas in your home. If you have people over, sanitize high-traffic areas that get touched a lot, such as doorknobs and handrails. Keeping your home clean reduces germs and bacteria that may reside there.
- Get your annual flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is one of the best ways to prevent yourself from getting the flu. Experts recommend everyone six months and older get an annual flu shot. You can get your flu shot from your doctor or most local pharmacies, such as Walgreens, Walmart Pharmacy, Genoa Pharmacy, CVS, Canyon View Pharmacy, or City Market Pharmacy–all in Grand Junction, CO.
Staying Healthy With Visiting Angels
Don’t let limitations in caring for yourself prevent you from staying healthy this flu season. At Visiting Angels, we’re dedicated to helping seniors in our community stay safe and healthy. We offer various at-home care services to ensure you live the highest quality of life.
Our compassionate caregivers can assist with personal grooming and light housekeeping to limit the spread of bacteria and germs. They can also help seniors schedule vaccine appointments.
Contact our Grand Junction office to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn more about how our at-home care services can benefit you.