How to Prepare for Flu Season

Little girl lying in bed and coughing into her elbow

The influenza virus can be contracted and spread year-round. However, it is most contagious during flu season, which generally begins in early autumn, peaks between December and February, and tapers off by the end of spring.

Why Is the Coming Flu Season Expected to Be Severe?

To determine how heavy or light the coming flu season will be in the United States, scientists sometimes look to patterns occurring in the Southern Hemisphere, which is a season ahead of us. Based on those patterns, many experts foresee a significant risk in the number of flu cases in the U.S. this year.

The reason could be related to behavior changes related to COVID-19. Early in the pandemic, many people were taking steps to avoid contracting and spreading COVID-19, such as practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks in public, social distancing, and staying home as much as possible. Because influenza spreads in the same way as COVID-19, these steps provided protection against the flu as well.

With the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccines and the lifting of mask and social distancing requirements, many people are resuming their normal activities and going out more. This has increased the risk of influenza.

Why Is This Concerning?

The flu is more than “just a cold.” In some cases, it can lead to serious complications that require hospitalization, such as pneumonia. Young children, pregnant women, seniors, and those with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable, but everyone is at risk—even healthy adults.

To protect yourself and others, it is important to be vigilant with safety precautions. There are some simple steps you can take to prepare for flu season:

  • Get your annual flu shot in September or October
  • Wear a mask in public (even if you are vaccinated against COVID-19 and the flu)
  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often
  • Practice good coughing and sneezing etiquette by covering your nose and mouth with a clean tissue or your elbow
  • Stock your medicine cabinet with a thermometer and an over-the-counter pain reliever, fever reducer, cough medicine, and sore throat remedy
  • Stay home if you don’t feel well
  • Contact a healthcare provider for advice on what to do if you get sick

With the added threat of COVID-19 still in play, it is extra important to take these preventive measures during flu season. Why not start by getting your flu shot?

The experienced team at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, is here to help. Our walk-in urgent care center is open every day during extended hours, and we accept most major health insurance plans. Stop by for your flu shot today!