Protecting Yourself from the Flu

Symptoms of the Flu

Symptoms of the flu may come on suddenly and can include: 

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

Call your physician if you or a family member has symptoms, especially if you are at higher risk of flu complications. “The flu typically occurs suddenly and has more severe symptoms than the common cold,” said Dr. James. “Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are worsening, especially if you have a high fever or trouble breathing.”

Who Has a Higher Risk of Complications from the Flu?

Certain underlying health conditions can cause severe illness from the flu, including life-threatening complications and hospitalization. You are at a higher risk if you:

• Have asthma, chronic lung disease or COPD
• Have diabetes
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have a history of history of kidney, liver, neurological or heart disease, including stroke
• Are obese (with a BMI above 30)
• Are over 65 years old or under 5 years old
• Are pregnant

Benefits of the Flu Vaccine

The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It can help to

• Prevent or limit the chance of illness
• Reduce medical visits or hospitalizations
• Prevent health complications or death
• Combat constantly changing viruses

When Should I Get The Flu Vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older get a flu shot by the end of October each year. However, you can still benefit from receiving the vaccine any time during the flu season.

Contact your primary care physician (PCP) to schedule your flu shot. If you do not have a PCP, Find a Catholic Health doctor near you or call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362). 

Vaccines are also available at your local pharmacy, urgent care centers, and community clinics. You can also receive a flu shot at any of the Catholic Health Urgent Care Locations in Suffolk County: Centereach, Melville, and Ronkonkoma. No appointment is necessary.

Additional Ways to Prevent the Flu

The flu is a contagious illness. In addition to the flu vaccine, you can take additional measures to prevent the spread of germs, including:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Avoid direct contact with people who are sick
• Wash your hands frequently
• Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick

How is the Flu Treated?

If you are diagnosed with the flu, your physician will offer treatment based several factors including your symptoms, age and any pre-existing conditions. Depending on these factors as well as the severity of your illness, treatment may include:

• Antiviral flu medications
• Prescription or over-the-counter cough suppressants and/or expectorants
• Nasal decongestants
• Pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help lower fever and relieve head and body aches
• Drinking fluids to prevent dehydration
• Getting plenty of rest

In most cases, flu symptoms can be managed at home, and most people recover within a few days to a week. The flu can cause severe illness, so it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse.

Find Care at Catholic Health

Find a Catholic Health doctor near you. Or call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362).

For convenient urgent care, visit a Catholic Health Urgent Care location.