Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory illness that affects your lungs, throat, and nose in a much more severe way than a common cold. In fact, the flu is responsible for thousands of hospital visits and admissions every year. The flu can even lead to death in some patients. Young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to complications from flu. [1] Getting your flu vaccine can cut that risk significantly, protecting not only you, but your loved ones as well.
Here’s a great video that explains how:
The REAL Flu Facts
You’ll find a lot of information about the flu online. Not all of it is correct. That’s why we at Horizon Family Medical Group always recommend that you get your information from trusted sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). [2]
Here’s a great resource you can hang in your office, at church, or at your community center:
Follow the CDC “Take 3” actions for fighting the flu
We love these three actions from the CDC to help keep you healthy during this flu season. [3] Here they are:
1. “Take time to get the flu vaccine”
Getting your flu shot is the first, and one of the most important, things you can do to help prevent you and your family from getting the flu.
2. “Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.”
Use some good, common judgement to avoid the flu. Stay away from sick people, wash your hands, cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing. These are all things we know we should do.
3. “Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.”
If you get the flu, an antiviral medication may be prescribed to help. These medications are different from antibiotics—which we don’t prescribe for flu; doing so only increased antibiotic resistance to other bugs.
Make an appointment today
Schedule your flu shot by calling 1-800-859-0085. If you develop any flu-like symptoms this season, don’t wait, make an appointment right away. We’ll do everything we can to get you healthy and back on your feet.
Resources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/Features/FLU/
- https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/general/why-get-flu-vaccine.pdf
- https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm