The best way to manage the flu is to avoid it! That means discussing flu shots with your doctor to find out if it’s right for you.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):
You should get a flu vaccine before flu begins spreading in your community. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body, so make plans to get vaccinated early in fall, before flu season begins. CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October. Getting vaccinated later, however, can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout flu season, even into January or later.
Children who need two doses of vaccine to be protected should start the vaccination process sooner, because the two doses must be given at least four weeks apart.
The CDC goes further to provide information if you experience flu symptoms:
- If you get sick with flu symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care
- If, however, you have symptoms of flu and are at high risk of flu complications, or are very sick or concerned about your illness, contact your health care provider. There are drugs your doctor may prescribe for treating flu called antivirals. These drugs can make you better faster and may also prevent serious complications.
If you get the, consider the following:
- Gets lots of rest.
- Drink plenty of fluids – both hot and cold.
- Sit in a steamy bathroom or use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
- Use pain relievers as allowed by your doctor and health condition to manage aches and pains (consult your doctor if you are unsure what to take).
- Use decongestants if allowed by your doctor to manage congestion and related symptoms.
- Call 911 if you have trouble breathing or increased shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, seizure, fainting, or trouble waking.
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