October ushers in lots of things we love, like cooler days, football, hayrides, apple picking and a start to the holiday season. However, it’s also, unfortunately, the arrival of cold and flu season. If you prepare early though, October doesn’t have to be scary. We’ve got prevention tips this cold and flu season to help you stay healthy.
Getting your flu shot
A flu shot is still the number one way to avoid complications from a serious case of the flu. Getting one annually is recommended for anyone six months and older. And according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), getting vaccinated now protects you ahead of peak flu season. That’s why getting the flu vaccine by the end of October is highly suggested.
Here are some other things to know about getting a flu shot this year:
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- Protection begins about two weeks after getting your flu shot.
- Two forms of flu shot exist, including an injectable and nasal spray. Nasal sprays can be an option for people from ages two to 49.
- While flu shots are now considered safe for people with egg allergies, egg-free vaccines are still available.
- For adults 65 and older, your provider may recommend a specific vaccine based on your age.
- Children younger than six months are too young to receive a flu shot.
- Flu shots may not be appropriate for people with severe or life-threatening allergies.
Preventing against COVID-19
COVID-19 is still something to watch out for. It’s recommended to stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. This is important because:
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- Protection from the COVID-19 vaccine decreases over time.
- Updated COVID-19 vaccines give the best protection against current strains.
You can currently receive updated vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Novovax. It’s also perfectly fine to get your COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as your flu shot. This can be more convenient than getting vaccinated during separate visits.
Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
So, what about RSV?
RSV, a contagious respiratory virus, is mainly a concern for older adults. The CDC recommends anyone over 75 be vaccinated against RSV. It’s also approved for people over 60 who may be at increased risk for severe illness. Like we mentioned above, it’s okay to receive an RSV vaccine at the same time as your flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine.
Finding available vaccines
When you’re ready to get a flu, COVID-19 or RSV vaccine, you have some options. Here are three places to consider:
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- Head to your local pharmacy. Most pharmacies offer convenient flu shot options, through online appointments or walk-in visits. Meritain Health® members, check for in-network CVS Pharmacy® or MinuteClinic® locations.
- See if your employer is offering an on-site clinic. This is a quick and easy way to get your flu shot without missing work.
- Schedule a flu shot with your primary care doctor. Your doctor is a great first resource and can recommend which flu shot may be right for you. They can also administer vaccines during an office visit.
Other cold and flu tips
Seasonal vaccines are just one method of prevention. Other everyday ways to stay healthy include:
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- Washing your hands. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water to keep germs at bay. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be handy when you’re on the go.
- Avoiding close contact with others who are sick. Keeping some distance from those around you who are under the weather is a good idea. It’s best to avoid close contact until they feel better.
- Covering your mouth and nose. If you feel a cough or sneeze coming on, cover your mouth and nose with your arm or a tissue.
- Staying home when you’re not feeling well. When you feel sick, take the time you need to rest and recover. This might mean taking a personal day from work or canceling errands or plans. By simply staying home, you can give your body time to heal. You also won’t risk spreading germs to others.
Using prevention tips this cold and flu season can make for a healthier, cheerier fall and winter! Contact us if you have questions or to get ideas about how your benefits can help.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant as medical advice.
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