With cases of the flu and other respiratory illnesses on the rise, how do you keep yourself and your loved ones from getting the flu? And — if you are diagnosed with the flu — what can you do to get yourself on track to being well again?

What is the flu?

Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs. Most people recover on their own, but some with compromised immune systems can develop a serious illness. Those at a higher risk of developing complications include:

• Adults 65 and older and children younger than 2
• Residents in long-term care facilities or nursing homes
• People who are pregnant or those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma and heart disease

The common symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Chills and sweats
• Headaches
• Dry, persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness
• Runny or stuffy nose

How can I protect myself from getting the flu?

The No. 1 way to protect yourself from getting the flu is to get a flu shot. While you can still get sick despite getting a flu shot, those that receive the shot generally recover quicker and have less severe symptoms than the unvaccinated. You cannot get the flu by receiving a flu shot.

Since the vaccine is not 100% effective, there are other measures you can take to protect yourself from getting the flu, including:

• Frequent hand washing. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you are unable to wash your hands, hand sanitizer can be used.
• Frequent cleaning and sanitizing surfaces. Whether at home or at work, places where people commonly touch things can be a breeding ground for germs. Take the time to wipe down surfaces such as counter tops, keyboards, desks, doorknobs and other “high-touch” areas.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have access to something to cover your mouth, coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow rather than your hands is best. Also avoid touching your face with your hands as much as possible.
• Avoid crowded areas when possible. This is a good strategy for protecting yourself from the flu, COVID-19 and many other illnesses.

Taking care of yourself with the flu

If you think you’ve contracted the flu, see your healthcare provider to be tested. The flu can have some of the same symptoms as other diseases, including a cold or even COVID-19. Your healthcare provider will be able to assist you with discovering what you have and the best way to treat it.

There are things you can do to take care of yourself while you recover at home. It’s important to stay home from work or school to help you recover and to help prevent spreading the flu to others. Other steps you can take include:

• Drink plenty of fluids including water and other clear liquids to prevent dehydration.
• If your healthcare provider has prescribed any medications, take them as directed. You can also treat the symptoms of the flu with over-the-counter medications, but consult your healthcare provider if those are appropriate to take if you are taking prescription medications.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Avoid close contact with others in your home to prevent spreading the flu to others.
• If your symptoms do not improve or you experience trouble breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information about the flu, please visit the Tanner Health Library.