Don’t let the flu get you down this winter
We’re smack dab in the heart of cold and flu season, but if you haven’t received your flu shot yet, there’s still time.
“It’s important to get the new flu vaccine every year because the virus changes,” says SBH Health Director of Occupational Health Services Ardita Sopi. “Each new vaccine targets the strains of the flu most likely to be circulating.”
The flu can cause serious illness, especially for older people, babies and those whose immune systems aren’t the strongest. The best way to protect yourself is with a vaccine. You can get a flu shot at SBH Health System Urgent Care by ModernMD for $25 or through your primary care provider. Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover the cost.
The flu vs. a cold
If you do get sick, knowing what you have can help you get relief quicker. And sometimes it can be hard to tell. Both the flu and colds are caused by viruses, and they both affect the respiratory tract. Yet while they share many symptoms, there are a few key differences.
For example, a headache isn’t a typical cold symptom. Neither are body aches, fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea. But those are all common symptoms of the flu. On the other hand, if you have a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing or watery eyes, you’re probably dealing with a cold.
Take steps to protect yourself
In addition to the flu shot, there are other preventive steps you can take to protect yourself from getting sick, including:
- Cleaning surfaces, like kitchen counters and bathroom sinks, frequently
- Covering your nose and mouth when you cough
- Washing your hands often