Flu season is upon us, and rates are higher this year than they were last year. Since we’re not out of the COVID-19 woods yet, it’s important to take the necessary steps toward preventing illness to avoid a “twindemic,” involving both the flu and the coronavirus.

Our AFC Urgent Care Southcenter team highlights what you need to know about the flu below, so keep reading!

What Is the Flu?

The flu, like COVID-19, is a respiratory illness. It’s caused by the influenza virus, which attacks the nose, throat and lungs. Older adults, young children and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of experiencing severe flu complications.

Flu cases rise each winter, but the flu vaccine works to lower both your chances of getting sick and having serious health complications due to the virus. We’ve listed some common symptoms of the flu below.

Other Common Flu Symptoms

• Aches and pains throughout the body
• Headaches
• Chills
• Sore throat
• An extreme feeling of fatigue
• A persistent and worsening cough
• Stuffy or runny nose

How Can I Avoid the Flu This Winter?

While it’s not really possible to be 100% certain that you won’t get the flu, there are things you can do that will decrease your risk, like getting the annual flu vaccine.

The flu vaccine is 40 to 60% effective in preventing the illness, and if you do happen to get the flu even after you’ve had the vaccine, it greatly lowers your chances of experiencing serious illness. In addition to getting the flu vaccine, we’ve listed some effective ways to stay healthy this winter below.

How to Stay Healthy This Winter

• Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
• Wear a mask in public spaces.
• Stay at home and away from others when you are sick to prevent catching and transmitting illness and potential virus.

Have you gotten your annual flu vaccine yet? If not, there’s still time to do so! Stop by our AFC Urgent Care Southcenter location today.