As the respiratory virus season begins, healthcare professionals are reporting early cases of influenza. Dr. Timothy Hendrix, Chief Medical Officer at AdventHealth Centra Care, noted, “Small numbers, but definitely the flu season is getting started.” The symptoms of influenza typically include a cough, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and fever, which can be more severe and prolonged compared to common colds.
Each year, the flu causes an estimated 20,000 to 50,000 deaths in the United States alone. Dr. Hendrix emphasized the importance of distinguishing influenza from typical upper respiratory viruses: “It is more severe and it lasts longer. So it could be a week before you start feeling better.” To mitigate the risk of severe symptoms and hospitalization, medical professionals strongly recommend receiving the flu vaccine.
Flu Vaccine Timing and Recommendations
Dr. Hendrix explained that the flu vaccine is essential for building immunity, reducing the likelihood of serious complications. He stated, “There’s no reason to suffer. If you’ve had bad flu, it’s bad.” Dr. Jill Roberts, a professor at the USF College of Public Health, and Dr. Laura Arline, Chief Quality Officer at BayCare, both affirmed the benefits of vaccination. They advised that October is an ideal time to get vaccinated, as it helps ensure adequate protection throughout the flu season.
“Getting vaccinated by the end of October is ideal,” Dr. Arline mentioned. While receiving the vaccine later in the season still offers protection, early vaccination is encouraged. “Do it now while you’re thinking about it, while it’s convenient,” Dr. Hendrix advised. The flu vaccine is recommended for anyone aged 6 months and older.
It is normal to experience mild symptoms after receiving the flu shot. Dr. Roberts explained, “The flu shots sometimes can make you feel a little crummy. They’re supposed to. Your immune system is actually acknowledging the presence of the flu shot, and you can feel a little bit crummy.”
Additional Preventative Measures
In addition to vaccination, there are several strategies to reduce the risk of contracting the flu. Frequent hand washing and minimizing exposure to sick individuals are critical. Dr. Hendrix highlighted the importance of maintaining overall health through adequate sleep, stating, “People who don’t get that 7 hours of sleep a night are at increased risk of upper respiratory viruses, including the flu.”
A balanced diet and regular exercise also contribute to a healthy immune system. “All these different aspects of healthy living can keep you healthy and help prevent you from getting the flu when you’re exposed to those viruses,” Dr. Hendrix added.
This information was originally reported by Larissa Scott with the Scripps News Group in Tampa, bringing attention to the critical need for vigilance as flu season unfolds.