The start of the new year presents a great opportunity to adopt healthy habits, especially during flu season. With the severity of flu season this year, it is important to remain vigilant to keep yourself and others safe and healthy. Follow these important guidelines this season (and every season) to mitigate the risk to yourself and others:
1. Stay Home When Sick
If possible, stay home if you're feeling sick with flu-like symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches and/or fatigue
- Chills
Avoiding close contact with others who are sick can help lower the risk of spreading respiratory illnesses like the flu.
2. Cover to Care
The flu virus often spreads through droplets when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing to help prevent this spread, and consider wearing a mask to avoid spreading or inhaling infectious particles around you.
3. Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands with soap and water is a proven way to help reduce the spread of germs. Consider washing your hands before and after participating in activities that can spread germs such as cooking, using the bathroom, and caring for someone who is sick. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
4. Get the Shot
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months of age and older receive an annual flu vaccine, with limited exceptions. Healthcare experts regard the flu vaccine as the first and most important way to reduce the risk of flu for yourself and others. Vaccines against the flu are particularly important for:
- People aged 65 and older
- Adults with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke
- People with chronic kidney disease
- People with HIV
Healthcare providers can help patients make informed decisions about receiving the flu vaccine. Individuals can receive their vaccine throughout flu season in a variety of settings including doctors' offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
Learn more about the vaccine for the 2025-2026 flu season, and continue to stay vigilant to start the new year in the healthiest way possible.