Take a shot of prevention — protect yourself from the flu this fall

Helpful tips to fight off the flu Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms: Fever, usually high Headache Tiredness (may be extreme) Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Diarrhea and vomiting (more common in children)

When it comes to staying healthy this fall, you call the shots.

The change in season brings new colors, colder temperatures, and nasty viruses. But you can protect yourself from getting the flu by following a few important steps.  

Influenza (the “flu”) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. The best way to treat the flu is to not get it in the first place — and the best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that the following groups get flu vaccinations:

• Women who will be pregnant during the flu season
  
• Children 6 months to 59 months old
  
• Children or adolescents 2 to 18 years old who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
  
• Out-of-home caregivers and household contacts of children under the age of 2, adults 65 and older, or people with a high-risk condition
  
  

When a person who is sick with the flu coughs or sneezes, the illness is spread through droplets. Occasionally, people get sick from touching an object, such as a doorknob, with an influenza virus on it, and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. Healthy adults can infect others one day before getting symptoms and up to five days after getting sick.

Although most healthy people recover from the flu without complications, older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions can suffer from serious complications, including bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

To avoid getting and spreading the flu, have your child:

• Cover his or her nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  
• Wash his or her hands often with soap and water.
  
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  
• Stay home from school and social gatherings when ill.
  
• Try not to touch his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

If your child does get the flu, make sure he or she:

• Gets plenty of rest.
  
• Drinks a lot of liquids.
  
• Takes medications such as acetaminophen to relieve fever and muscle aches. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms, particularly a fever.