Flu season might be here, but you don’t have to let it wreck your plans. Understanding the flu, how it spreads, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself and others is the way to take control and stop this common illness.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about the flu to help you slay the snot, not your plans.
What is the flu?
Influenza – more commonly known as the flu – is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. The flu can cause serious illness, especially in people with underlying health conditions, older adults, young children, and pregnant people.
At this time of year, you might feel sick but not know if you have the flu, a cold, or COVID-19.
How does it spread?
The flu mainly spreads through contact with droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. These tiny droplets can land in your mouth or nose – or even live on surfaces that you touch before touching your face.
What are the flu symptoms?
When you have the flu, you’ll feel it – fast. Symptoms begin suddenly, feel more intense, and include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches or headaches
- Fatigue
- Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea (more common in kids)
If you wake up in the morning feeling totally fine, but by lunch you’re in bed feeling miserable, you might have the flu.
How can I stop the flu?
No one likes having to cancel their plans because they’re sick, but the good news is – with one simple action, the flu stops with you.
So what can you do to slay the snot? Get the shot!
The seasonal flu vaccine helps your body build immunity, so even if you’re exposed to the virus, you’re less likely to get sick. The best part? When you get vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself, but also those around you. That’s a win-win.
Ready to join Marathon Health’s #NoFluCrew? Get your flu shot and join a fearless group of folks who’ve chosen to protect their health, community, and plans this flu season.
Marathon is here to help
Getting your flu shot with Marathon Health is quick and easy. Reach out to your provider today to schedule your flu shot appointment.
Slay the snot, get the shot. Schedule an appointment today.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, August 13). About influenza. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, August 26). Signs and symptoms of flu. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, September 17). How flu spreads. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spread/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, August 26). Preventing seasonal flu. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevention/index.html
