Fall is a great time to check in on your health. As temperatures cool and flu activity begins to increase, a few simple steps can help you and your family stay healthier throughout the months ahead.
One of the most important things to add to your fall health checklist is your annual flu shot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions. Getting vaccinated can reduce your risk of getting the flu and may lower your risk of serious complications if you do become sick.
But your flu vaccine is just one part of staying healthy. Fall is also a good time to review your overall health, make sure routine care is up to date, and talk with your primary care provider about any concerns.
- Get Your Flu Shot
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and other symptoms. For some people, flu can lead to serious complications, including hospitalization.
Getting your flu vaccine each year is one of the best ways to help protect yourself.
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October when possible. September and October are generally good times for most people to receive their flu shot. However, if you miss that window, getting vaccinated later can still provide protection as long as flu viruses are circulating and vaccine is available.
It is also important to remember that flu vaccines are updated each season to help protect against the flu viruses expected to circulate.
The CDC explains, “The best way to reduce your risk from seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get a flu vaccine every year.”
- Check In on Your Overall Health
Fall can be a good reminder to take a step back and look at your health as a whole.
If you have not had a primary care visit recently, consider scheduling one. A routine appointment gives you an opportunity to talk with your provider about how you are feeling, review your health history, and address concerns before they become bigger problems.
Depending on your age, health history, and individual needs, your provider may also recommend routine screenings, lab work, or other preventive care.
Preventive care is not just about treating illness. It is about finding potential health concerns early and helping you stay on track with your health.
- Review Your Chronic Conditions
If you manage a chronic condition, staying on top of your health becomes even more important during flu season.
Conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and chronic lung disease can increase the risk of serious complications from the flu.
A routine visit can be a good opportunity to make sure your condition is well managed and that you understand what to do if you become sick.
Talk with your provider about any changes in your symptoms, medications, or daily routine. If you have questions about how the flu or flu vaccine may affect your specific health needs, your provider can help.
4. Prepare Your Household for Flu Season
Flu prevention starts at home.
Simple habits can help reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick when possible.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces.
- Get enough sleep and stay hydrated.
These habits may seem simple, but they can make a difference during the months when respiratory illnesses are more common.
- Know What to Watch For
Even if you get your flu shot and take steps to prevent illness, you may still get sick.
Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and can include:
- Fever or feeling feverish
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
Some people, especially children, may also experience vomiting or diarrhea.
If you develop flu symptoms and are concerned about your health, contact your health care provider. This is especially important if you are older, pregnant, have a chronic health condition, or are otherwise at higher risk for complications.
Your provider can help you determine what steps to take based on your symptoms and health history.
- Make Prevention Part of Your Routine
Your health does not have to wait until something goes wrong. Small steps, such as getting your annual flu shot and keeping up with routine care, can help you stay ahead of potential health concerns.
As flu season approaches, make prevention part of your fall routine. Schedule your flu vaccine, check in with your primary care provider, and take a few simple steps to protect yourself and your family.
A healthier fall can start with something as simple as checking one important item off your list: your flu shot.