Enjoy Everything Fall Has to Offer. Don’t Let the Flu Get in the Way.

There's a lot to love about fall in Minnesota. Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, Friday night football, hunting season, bonfires, and time spent with family and friends all make this time of year special. As we embrace the season, it's also a good reminder to take a few simple steps to protect our health. Flu season arrives each fall as predictably as the changing colors, and preparing now can help you stay healthy and enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. While many people recover within a week or two, the flu can lead to serious complications, especially for those with higher risk factors. It's important to note that influenza is different from the "stomach flu," which typically causes gastrointestinal symptoms.

Why the Flu Shot Matters

The single best way to reduce your risk of getting the flu is to receive a flu vaccine every year.

According to Rayna Bergseth, FNP, at Perham Health, "Because flu viruses change from season to season, annual vaccination helps ensure you're protected against the strains expected to circulate most widely. In addition to reducing your risk of illness, vaccination can help lessen symptom severity and lower the likelihood of serious complications if you do get sick."

Recognizing Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and may include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Fatigue or extreme tiredness
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Chills
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body and muscle aches
• Shortness of breath

Some people, particularly children, may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.

"People with the flu can spread the virus before symptoms begin and for several days after becoming sick," Bergseth said. "Symptoms typically develop one to four days after exposure."

Who Is Most at Risk?

Anyone can get the flu, but certain groups are more likely to develop complications, including:

• Children younger than 2 years old
• Adults age 65 and older
• Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease
• American Indian and Alaska Native populations

What to Do If You Get the Flu

If you think you have the flu, taking care of yourself and preventing the spread of illness are important first steps.

Flu Care Tips

• Stay home and limit contact with others.
• Return to work, school, or daycare only after you've been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Use a humidifier if your home is dry.
• Wash your hands frequently and cover coughs and sneezes.
• Treat fever, headaches, and body aches with medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed.
• Soothe coughs and sore throats with warm liquids and cough drops.

In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medication such as Tamiflu® (oseltamivir). These medications work best when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms and are often recommended for people at higher risk of complications.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Consider seeking medical care if:

• Your symptoms improve but then return with a fever and worsening cough.
• You are pregnant, over age 65, caring for a young child, or have a chronic medical condition.
• You experience an earache or a fever lasting longer than three days.
• Your symptoms become severe or you have difficulty breathing.

Simple Ways to Prevent the Flu

Reducing your risk of illness starts with everyday habits:

• Get your annual flu vaccine.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you're feeling ill.

These simple precautions can help protect you, your family, and your community throughout flu season.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I get a flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated before flu activity begins increasing in the community, ideally by the end of October. However, it's beneficial to get vaccinated anytime during flu season.

Is the flu shot safe during pregnancy?

Yes. The flu vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and helps protect both mother and baby.

Should children get vaccinated?

Yes. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with few exceptions.

What if I have allergies?

Most people with allergies can safely receive a flu vaccine. Talk with your healthcare provider if you've experienced a severe vaccine reaction in the past.

Can the flu shot give me the flu?

No. Flu vaccines cannot cause influenza. Some people may experience mild soreness, fatigue, or a low-grade fever as their immune system responds to the vaccine.

Can I receive other recommended vaccines at the same time?

In many cases, yes. Speak with your healthcare provider about your recommended vaccine schedule.

Schedule Your Flu Shot Today

"As you make plans for everything that comes with the season, don't forget to make a plan for your health," added Bergseth. "An annual flu shot is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community throughout flu season."

Call your local Perham Health clinic to schedule your flu shot appointment today.