An Early Flu Season: What You Can Do Now

We are already seeing people with Influenza A diagnosed with our state of the art PCR tests.  This is one of the earliest Flu seasons for many years.  It is impossible to say how long or how severe this will be but it is important to take action now.

To begin with, you should get a flu shot.  We offer them to our patients and they can also be obtained from the local health department and virtually all local pharmacies. The flu shots are highly effective at reducing the severity of the flu and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and death.  People 65 and older, as well as those who are at high risk due to medical conditions, should get the enhanced flu shot.  Everyone else, over the age of 6 months is encourage to get the regular strength flu shot. 

If you get flu symptoms you should check with your provider as soon as possible.  There are antiviral medications that can reduce the symptoms and shorten the course of the flu if given early.  

Remember to avoid contact with vulnerable people, the very young and the very old if you have symptoms

If you have the flu, stay home, drink plenty of fluids, use tylenol for the fever and aches and check with your provider if you are not getting better or have any worsening symptoms over time.

 Remember, when you get a flu shot you are not only protecting yourself but you are reducing the risk of flu spreading through your family, friends and neighbors.  

Call Somerset Primary Care to book your vaccination or discuss your symptoms.
Phone: 667-868-4027
Address: 382 West Main Street, Crisfield, Md 21817
Email: info@somerset-health.com
Website: Somerset-Health.com