‘Tis the season for sneezing, tissues, Tamiflu, and...flu shots.
Yes, it’s already time to start thinking about the flu season months.
Flu season is here and paired with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this flu and cold season doesn’t sound like it’s going to be very forgiving. As cooler weather approaches, more people are likely to gather inside together — unmasked — making it easier for viruses and germs to spread.
Experts are forecasting a 20% increase in flu cases compared to normal seasons.
Despite seeing record-low numbers for flu cases last year — thanks to everyone who stayed home or masked up outdoors — this year with the reopening of workplaces, schools, and decreased protocols, it could turn out to be a mess of a flu season.
Here’s what you need to know about the flu, what’s new this season, advice from health experts, if you can have COVID and the flu at the same time, and the best time for employees — and yourself — to get the flu shot.
When Are the Flu Season Months?
The United States flu season kicks off in the fall and runs through the spring. Every flu season is different, but most of the flu cases start increasing in October. The peak of flu season is in December and February. Sometimes, flu season can last until May if it’s an active season.
Not only does the flu run rampant during these times, but other respiratory viruses can also impact you similarly to the flu.
What’s New for This Year’s Flu Season?
Every year, a new flu strain circulates and requires individuals to stay on the defense to stay as healthy as possible. Add in the ongoing mutation of the COVID-19 variants, and it makes for a very hectic flu season. One positive thing to know going into this flu season: Research shows those who get their flu shots are less likely to have severe COVID-19 symptoms, according to a research article published in Plos One.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here’s what’s new:
- The flu vaccine composition has been updated again
- Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given together
- Licensure for one flu vaccine changed. Those individuals two years and older can receive Flucelvax Quadrivalent
- All flu vaccines will be quadrivalent (four-component), which will protect against four different flu viruses
Find more details on how flu vaccines work according to the CDC here.
Can I Have the Flu and COVID at the Same Time?
Brace yourself for it. Unfortunately, yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports you can have the flu and other respiratory issues like COVID-19 all at once. It can be challenging to tell the difference between COVID-19 and other flu symptoms, so getting a test done is the best way to know which virus you’re ill with to take the appropriate measures. Resting and staying hydrated are good ideas for both!
RELATED: How Dangerous is the Flu? A Look at The Real Cost of the Flu
How Can I Stay Healthy for Flu Season?
There are several ways you can stay healthy during the flu season months. One of the top ways to stay well is by practicing regular healthy habits that keep your immune system strong, experts say.
“Boosting your immune system is one piece of advice I have for staying healthy during flu season,” says Dr. Michael K. Newman, a Beverly Hills board-certified plastic surgeon. CEO & Plastic Surgeon. “By including the proper vitamins and minerals in your diet, you may improve your body's capacity to fight illness.”
Other essential ways to stay healthy this flu season:
- Boost your gut health - A large portion of the immune system actually is in the gut, so it makes sense that your diet impacts how you feel on a daily basis. “Boosting your immune system should begin with your gut's microbiome,” says Trista Best, a registered dietician at Balance One Supplements. “Probiotics have been shown to prevent the binding of potentially disease-causing bacteria to the gut's lining. This significantly reduces the risk of developing infections of the upper respiratory tract and flu-like symptoms. Fermented foods that are probiotic-rich and also easily tolerated on a flu-ridden stomach include kombucha, miso, and sourdough bread.”
- Increase vitamins intake - Vitamin C in particular is one that is marketed a lot during cold and flu season. Research shows it does have modest prevention power, but some believe that’s better than nothing! Zinc, on the other hand, has been shown to reduce the duration of cold symptoms by up to 40% in individuals, depending on the dosage.
- Get your flu vaccine - Doctors’ offices are getting the flu vaccines now, so it’s an ideal time to get yours. A flu vaccine can help you from getting sick or reduce your symptoms and the chance of hospitalization if you do catch it.
- Eat a balanced diet - If your body doesn’t have all the vitamins and minerals it needs, it can make it harder for immune cells and antibodies to keep you well. A diet high in processed foods and red meats can potentially impact the intestinal microorganisms which may play a role in suppressed immune responses.
- Practice proper sleep hygiene - Not sleeping well or enough? Your immune system will suffer if you can’t get on a good sleep routine. Mayo Clinic reports those who don’t sleep well are more likely to catch a cold. Not catching enough ZZZs will also impact your ability to recover faster.
- Skip the booze and smoking - Both smoking and excessive drinking can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections. A history of smoking or being a current smoker can increase the chance of hospitalization during a respiratory illness, according to a 2010 study published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases.
As a final reminder, Best adds, “A balanced immune system is essential to how the body both prevents and recovers from the flu. When your immune system is working efficiently and effectively you are more likely to fight off illness and prevent spreading it to others.”
Why Now is the Best Time For a Flu Shot
Many physicians’ offices and pharmacies now have the flu shot in stock. Since the flu season months are upon us, now is a great time to get your shot. It’s important to remember the flu shot doesn’t work right away; it takes two weeks for the antibodies to build up and offer protection.
Who should get the shot now?
It’s recommended that everyone who can get the vaccine does so before the end of October, especially those who are 65 and older. Note that some children need two doses and they need to be given at least four weeks apart, so planning is important.
Women in their third trimester of pregnancy will also want to consider a flu shot as the protection is extended to their unborn child and is effective during those first few months of life when children are vulnerable to the flu.
Need more content about the flu? Here are some informative reads:
- How Long Does the Flu Last? Here are the Stages of the Flu
- The Best Food and Drink for the Flu to Heal Up Fast
- The 6 Benefits of Flu Shots Everyone Should Consider
- How to Avoid a Sore Arm After Your Workplace Flu Shot
As we go into flu season, consider still wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and staying home when you’re sick. Keep your loved ones healthy and your community safe by playing it smart this flu season!
Want to plan a flu shot clinic in your workplace? Reach out to us today to learn how to do it! Learn more here.
