Every year between 10 and 40 million people in the United States will become ill with the flu, and hundreds of thousands will be hospitalized. Tens of thousands will die from influenza. Many illnesses and hospitalizations can be avoided by following preventive measures recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Number one is to get a flu shot! Even now, it is not too late. Flu shots reduce the risk of getting the flu, getting severely ill and possibly hospitalized if you do get it.
Other ways to avoid getting the flu include avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands frequently.
If you do get sick, follow these steps to prevent others from getting sick:
- If you’re ill, stay home.
- If you need to be around others, wear a well-fitting mask to reduce the risk of transmitting disease.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
People older than 65, those with immune deficiencies, and young children all face a greater risk of getting sick and/or having to go to the hospital, so it’s important to protect these individuals from the flu.
If you get sick with the flu, ask your health care provider about treatment options that might reduce the severity of disease.
If you have questions about the flu vaccine, talk to your doctor. Everyone can help slow the spread of all respiratory diseases, including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.
