Flu season is coming! Now is a great time for you and your children to get your flu shots for this year if you have not yet done so.
Got vaccinated last year? Make plans to go again this year: Flu vaccines must be given every year to remain effective, as your immunity declines over time. Also, each year’s vaccine targets the strains of the influenza virus expected to be circulating that year. Everyone age six months and older should be immunized against flu every year to minimize the risk of contracting the disease and suffering its complications.
Children under 5 are especially vulnerable to the flu and its complications, which can include pneumonia, dehydration, and ear infections. A flu vaccine provides exposure to flu germs in a controlled manner that triggers your child’s immune system to create flu-fighting antibodies without providing so much exposure that it makes them sick or at risk for serious flu complications.
Sources for the Flu Vaccine
The flu vaccine is available from doctors, convenience clinics such as CVS Minute Clinic, and pharmacies. Most insurance plans cover the full cost of the vaccine, but check with your health insurance to learn how to receive a covered vaccination.
You can also receive a FREE flu shot at one of Montgomery County’s Flu Vaccine Clinics. The next clinics are scheduled for Nov. 12 and 18.
Flu Symptoms
Many people associate the flu with vomiting or diarrhea, but these symptoms usually only show up in children. Someone sick with flu may not exhibit them at all. The flu, also known as influenza, is actually a respiratory system infection and may be confused with a cold. Common flu symptoms include:
fever
chills
muscle or body aches
fatigue
runny or stuffy nose
sore throat
cough
headache
Preventing the Spread of Flu Germs
Wash your hand frequently (and teach your children to do so as well).
Stay home when you are sick. You or your child should be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to regular activities, including preschool. It is GSLP policy that students must be fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours before returning to class.
Cover coughs and sneezes. Use your elbow or a tissue, not your hands.
Clean frequently touched surfaces with a product that can kill flu germs. Diluted bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant can do the job.