With the holiday season just around the corner, so is the annual flu season, a time when influenza activity typically peaks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. February is historically the peak month for flu activity, but the season can begin as early as October and last into May.
To reduce the risk of contracting the flu, Dr. Matthew Heller, an associate professor of family medicine at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months get a flu shot annually. “Always talk to your physician about potential exceptions and find out whether the flu vaccine is appropriate for you,” Heller advised.
The vaccine works by stimulating the body to produce antibodies that provide protection against the flu-causing virus, Heller explained. Even if a vaccinated person catches the flu, the symptoms and potential complications are likely to be less severe. During seasons when the vaccine is less effective due to virus mutations, it still offers significant benefits by reducing hospitalizations, deaths, and the number of outpatient healthcare visits across all age groups. Importantly, Heller emphasized that the way flu vaccines are developed makes it impossible for them to cause the flu.
Getting vaccinated early is crucial because it takes about two weeks for the body to build full protection after receiving the shot. Flu symptoms typically include fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache, and fatigue. People usually become contagious a few days before symptoms appear and can remain contagious for up to a week. Most individuals can recover at home with rest and fluids, but those in high-risk groups—such as adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions—should contact a physician if they suspect they have the flu.
In addition to vaccination, Heller suggests other preventive measures: frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer, sanitizing frequently touched surfaces, avoiding touching the face, steering clear of large crowds, and sneezing into a tissue or elbow. “The flu spreads easily from person to person,” Heller said. “Remember that getting the flu vaccine will not only protect you but will also protect all those around you. By setting the example, others will follow.”
As the flu season approaches, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the impact of the virus on individuals and communities. Consult your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated and adopt healthy habits to stay protected throughout the season.
