How to Prepare for the Flu Season

When flu season comes around, being proactive can help you stay healthy and protect those around you. Preparing ahead of time makes it easier to reduce your risk of catching the flu and manage symptoms if they do appear. By focusing on prevention and knowing when to seek care, you can face flu season with confidence.

Tips for Staying Healthy

Get Your Annual Flu Vaccine

The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of getting sick. It helps your body build immunity to circulating flu strains, which can reduce the severity of symptoms if you become ill. Because the flu virus changes from year to year, an annual shot is recommended.

Timing matters with vaccinations. It’s best to get your shot before flu season begins in early fall. That gives your body time to build immunity before flu activity peaks. The vaccine is available at doctor’s offices, pharmacies and community health clinics.

Practice Hand Hygiene and Sanitation

Wash your hands frequently: Lathering soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds helps remove germs you pick up throughout the day. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a good alternative if soap and water aren’t available.
Sanitize shared surfaces: Germs can survive on doorknobs, keyboards and phones. Wiping down commonly touched surfaces helps reduce the spread of illness within your household and workplace. The CDC notes that the flu virus can be killed by cleaning products that contain bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol (at least 60–70%). Look for EPA-registered disinfectants labeled as effective against influenza. Even common household cleaners such as diluted bleach solutions, disinfectant sprays, or alcohol-based wipes are proven to reduce flu virus survival on surfaces. Be sure to use these cleaners as directed.
Avoid touching your face: Be mindful of touching your eyes, nose and mouth to avoid introducing germs to your system.

Boost Your Immune System with Healthy Habits

A strong immune system helps your body fight off infections and recover faster if you do get sick. Healthy habits can go a long way toward strengthening your defenses during flu season.

Get enough sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours each night to give your body time to repair and restore.
Eat nutritious foods: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins provides vitamins and minerals that support immunity.
Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day keeps your body functioning well and helps flush toxins.
Stay active: Regular physical activity boosts circulation and can strengthen your immune response.

Stock Up on Flu Season Essentials

Being prepared at home can make flu season easier to manage. Having the right supplies on hand means you can focus on recovering if illness strikes. A well-stocked cabinet also eliminates the need to make last-minute trips to the store when you or a family member isn’t feeling well.

Keep these essentials ready:

Tissues
Hand sanitizer
Over the counter medications such as fever reducers and cough suppressants
Thermometers
Disinfecting wipes
Comfort items like tea or soup

When to See a Doctor for Flu Symptoms

Most cases of the flu can be managed with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications. However, there are times when medical attention is necessary. If you experience a high fever (above 102°F), chest pain, difficulty breathing or signs of severe dehydration, it’s important to seek care right away.

Certain groups are more vulnerable to flu complications and should be especially cautious. Young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions may need medical support sooner. If symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a few days, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Stay Proactive to Stay Healthy This Flu Season

Preparing for flu season is about taking small steps that add up to better protection. From getting your vaccine to practicing good hygiene and supporting your immune system, you can make choices that lower your risk of illness.

Schedule your flu shot today or visit Wood County Hospital for resources and care to help you stay healthy this flu season.