Flu Season: What Adults Should Know

As temperatures begin to cool and flu season approaches, it is important to take steps to protect your health. The flu, also called influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms. While anyone can get the flu, older adults and people with certain health conditions are at a higher risk of serious complications. Knowing how the flu spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect yourself can help you stay healthy during flu season.

What Is the Flu?

The flu is caused by a virus that affects your nose, throat, and sometimes your lungs. It spreads mainly through the air when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also get the flu by touching something that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes, but this is less common.

Flu season typically occurs during the fall and winter months in the United States, with cases often increasing between December and February. However, flu activity can begin earlier or continue into the spring.

What Are Common Flu Symptoms?

Flu symptoms often appear suddenly and may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue or weakness

Some people may also experience vomiting or diarrhea, although this is more common in children. Not everyone with the flu will have a fever.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Flu Complications?

Although most healthy adults recover from the flu within several days to two weeks, some people are more likely to develop serious complications. These include adults aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems.

Complications from the flu may include pneumonia, dehydration, or worsening of existing medical conditions. Taking steps to prevent the flu is especially important for people at higher risk.

How Can You Protect Yourself During Flu Season?

One of the best ways to protect yourself is by getting a flu vaccine each year. The flu virus can change over time, so the vaccine is updated regularly to help protect against viruses expected to circulate during the upcoming season. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for most people aged 6 months and older.

Other ways to lower your risk of getting sick include washing your hands often, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active can also support your overall health.

What Should You Do if You Get the Flu?

If you develop flu symptoms, stay home and avoid close contact with others to help prevent spreading the virus. Get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and use over-the-counter medications as directed to help relieve symptoms.

Prescription antiviral medications may also help treat the flu. These medications work best when started within the first two days of symptoms, but they may still be helpful when started later, especially for people at higher risk of complications. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you think you have the flu, particularly if you are at higher risk.

Seek medical care right away if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or other severe symptoms.

How Can Your Pharmacy Help?

Your local pharmacy can be a helpful resource during flu season. Many pharmacies offer flu vaccinations and can help you understand which vaccine may be right for you. Your pharmacist can also recommend over-the-counter products to help relieve symptoms and check for possible interactions with your current medications.

If you are feeling sick, your pharmacy team can help you understand when to contact your doctor and what treatment options may be available.

Stay Prepared This Flu Season

Flu season comes around every year, but simple steps can help lower your risk of getting sick. Staying up to date on your flu vaccine, practicing healthy habits, and knowing when to seek medical care can help protect you and those around you.

Talk to your local pharmacist if you have questions about flu prevention, vaccinations, or managing flu symptoms. Your pharmacy team is here to help you stay healthy throughout flu season.