Flu Season Tips for Texans
The fall and winter months bring cooler temperatures, but they also usher in the dreaded flu season. Flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that typically attacks the nose, throat, and — in worsened cases — lungs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Getting the flu can be a common occurrence during peak flu season — typically between December and February. In fact, there were more than 9 million flu cases in 2021-2022, according to the CDC. However, there are effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here’s how to stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Understand the Symptoms
Pay attention to your symptoms, which can come on abruptly and may initially feel like a common cold. The earlier you detect flu symptoms, the better chance you have of stopping the spread and treating the illness before it worsens. Common flu symptoms include:
- Coughing.
- A sore throat.
- Fever.
- Muscle or body aches that can be severe.
- Chills.
- Headaches.
- Fatigue.
You may also have a runny or stuffy nose and bouts of sneezing — symptoms that can seem like a common cold.
Know Who’s at Risk
Even healthy people can catch the flu, but some people have a higher risk of developing serious flu-related symptoms. You might be at higher risk if you’re:
- Under 5 years old.
- 65 years old or older.
- Pregnant.
- Living with a chronic medical condition, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
Get Vaccinated
Getting the annual flu vaccine is one of the best protections against flu. It helps reduce the risk of flu illness by up to 60%, according to the CDC. And, should you become sick, having the vaccine helps curb the severity of the illness — and it can even be a life-saving tool for children.
You can get your yearly flu vaccine at your local pharmacy or doctor’s office. Texans can find a flu vaccine here or call 211 to learn more about vaccine availability at local health departments and nonprofits.
Stay Clean
Our hands are everywhere. Washing your hands and using hand sanitizer is an easy and effective way to keep flu germs at bay. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, getting the backs of your hands and in between your fingers.
Disinfect Regularly
Stop flu germs in their tracks. Taking time to deep-clean your home can help keep you and your family safe, too. Sanitize your kids’ belongings — especially items that they take to school each day. Zero in on your home’s most touched surfaces, including countertops, doorknobs, remotes, and even computer keyboards.
Keep Your Distance
If you’re feeling ill, do your best to stay home or isolated from others until you have a better understanding of your symptoms. Likewise, stay away from others who are — or might be — sick. It can be hard to do, especially during the holidays. But flu is contagious and spreads fast, so maintaining a healthy distance benefits everyone.
If you are around others when you aren’t feeling well, use a tissue to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Flu can spread through droplets created as you cough, sneeze, or even talk. This can help prevent those around you from getting sick.
Good Health Habits
A weakened immune system is a prime target for flu. You can fight back by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Also, try to manage your stress levels and get in regular physical activity.
Get, and Stay, Covered
There are a variety of tips to get you through flu season, but having the right health benefits can make all the difference. Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans offer members an innovative, competitive alternative to Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. While they are not considered health insurance, Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans feature some of the same benefits as standard health insurance, such as office visits, lab work, and emergency room services. Learn more about Texas Farm Bureau Health Plans.
Mental health can be just as important as physical health — especially during the hectic holiday months. Keep your winter days jolly and bright with this holiday mental health guide.
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