Protecting Yourself and Our Community from the Flu

February can mean a time of celebrating relationships and focusing on heart health, it is also important we not forget it can also be a peak time for the flu season. The influenza virus can cause mild to severe illness and, in some situations, can lead to death. Individuals with a greater risk of developing flu-related complications include children younger than five years old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, women up to two weeks postpartum, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and those with certain medical conditions like asthma, heart disease and blood disorders.

At Southwestern Medical Center, we want to ensure our neighbors have the information they need to stay healthy and fight preventable diseases, like the flu. Given the fact flu season is now upon us, we want to do everything we can to prevent the spread of this often debilitating illness. The good news is there are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself, prevent the disease from spreading, and speed up recovery from the flu, in case you do get sick.

The first and most important step is to get vaccinated. This is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu virus. While it is still possible to contract the flu after receiving a vaccination, it is much less likely. And if you do get sick, studies have shown flu vaccinations can make your illness milder. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months and older, with any age-appropriate flu vaccine. If you are considering a nasal spray flu vaccine, it is important to know this option is approved by the CDC for use in non-pregnant individuals, ages two through 49, and there is a precaution against this option for those with certain underlying medical conditions. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best flu vaccination method for you.

To get your flu vaccination, you can visit a walk-in clinic, pharmacy, or your primary health care provider’s office. If you don’t have a primary care provider, visit our website and browse our Provider Locator, or call 580-531-4050. If possible, you should plan to receive your flu vaccine before flu activity begins near you, as it can take approximately two weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective. A good rule of thumb is to get vaccinated by the end of October.

In addition to your flu vaccination, there are a number of other important things you can do to prevent the spread of infection and protect yourself, your family and our community during flu season and year-round, including:

– Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds, or using a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol-based
– Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
– Avoiding sharing food, cups or eating utensils
– Disinfecting your home and belongings, such as door knobs, light switches, children’s toys and play areas
– Staying home from school or work if you are sick to prevent the spread of germs
– Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow, and NOT your bare hands
– Calling your local hospital or your primary care provider with any questions

If you or a loved one begin to notice symptoms including coughing, sore throat, fever or upper respiratory symptoms, please see your healthcare provider right away. Early detection is especially important for young children, elderly populations, pregnant women and people with certain chronic health issues like asthma, diabetes, heart and lung disease and more. When detected early, prescription antiviral drugs can often help treat the illness and shorten the time you are sick by one or two days.

In addition, limit contact with others as much as possible immediately after noticing symptoms. Stay home (or keep your child home) for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone, except to seek medical care.

During flu season and year-round, Southwestern Medical Center is here to help with your healthcare needs.

For additional information about the 2018-19 flu season, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/flu-season-2018-2019.htm or contact the Public Health Department.