If you’ve ever had the flu, you know it can be a pretty awful experience. It can take a person down for a week or more and keep them from work and other activities. The best way to fight the flu is to keep from getting it. Before flu season hits this year, get a flu shot at Walker Family Care. Until then, read on to learn what you need to know about the flu.
Every year, influenza results in 3-5 million severe cases of illness worldwide. Of these, it is estimated that up to 650,000 people die from flu-related complications. This makes the flu one of the most dangerous seasonal illnesses globally.
Influenza is divided into four categories: A, B, C and D. The first three categories affect humans, and the last category primarily affects cattle. A and B are the most common and are also the most debilitating. The symptoms from category C are usually mild.
The way to tell if you have the flu or a seasonal sniffle is to monitor the severity of your symptoms. Flu symptoms are usually very severe and typically include:
Anyone can contract the flu virus. Like many viruses, it can be at its most infectious before major symptoms strike. So someone can pass it on to you and they may not even know they have it. The virus can be passed on through airborne particles, saliva, and from touching objects that have the virus and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
Some people are more at risk of getting it and developing serious complications, such as:
If you’re in one of these high-risk groups, it’s important that you seek medical advice on how to protect yourself from getting the flu virus.
Flu season occurs every year between December and March. These are normally the coldest and wettest times of the year, and they tend to be a breeding ground for the flu. The best time to get a flu shot is in early October before the flu season begins.
When you get a flu shot, you won’t only protect yourself, you’ll help protect those around you. If more people get the flu shot, there will be less pressure on the health care system and more importantly, fewer deaths.
If you want to stay healthy this flu season and help those around you stay healthy, too, get a flu shot at Walker Family Care. Book an appointment online or over the phone today.
