Protect Yourself Against the Flu!

As fall approaches, seasonal respiratory infections start to rear their head. For older adults, the flu can cause more serious illness, lead to complications such as pneumonia, and potentially kill. In the U.S., flu season runs from mid-fall to late spring, with some adjustments each year.

So, how can you protect yourself against the flu?

Tips on How to Protect Yourself from Flu

Get Vaccinated

Although the flu vaccine is only about 40 to 60 percent effective against symptomatic illness, it is more protective against severe disease. You should get your shot at the start of the flu season, early in the fall. Adults 65 and older should get the high-dose flu vaccine because their immune systems tend to be weaker. It is no longer true that people with severe allergies to eggs should not be vaccinated, however, they should either be vaccinated in a medical setting (i.e., not the pharmacist) or opt for an ovalbumin-free flu vaccine, of which two types (recombinant and cell-based) are available.

It takes about two weeks to get full immunity from the vaccine. The CDC recommends that you should get your flu vaccine by the end of October, but not early in the season, as this can result in reduced protection in the early spring.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

Washing your hands with soap and water will inactivate (kill) any flu virus that might be on your skin, along with most other viral and bacterial germs. You should wash your hands after going to the toilet, before eating, and frequently throughout the day. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

As frequent hand washing combined with dry winter air can dry out your hands, consider using a moisturizing lotion at night before bed.

Avoid Contact With People Who are Sick

If somebody is sick, you should avoid close contact with them. This means you should not visit a sick family member or allow them to visit you. If you are sick, you should stay home as much as possible, leaving home only for medical care or vital errands. If you can get somebody to shop for you, do.

Cover Your Nose and Mouth

If you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or hanky, or with your elbow. Do not cough or sneeze into your hand and if you happen to forget, wash your hands immediately.

If you are sick and must leave your home or if you are in a situation where high flu exposure is likely, consider wearing a face mask, ideally a KN-95 or surgical mask. People with weakened immune systems should consider masking up in public places throughout flu season.

You should also not touch your nose, mouth, or eyes unless you are sure your hands are clean.

Help Out Your Immune System

Do everything you can to help boost your immune system. This includes:

1. Getting adequate sleep, 7 to 9 hours a night. Elderly people often naturally sleep less but should do their best to get at least 6 hours.
2. Eat more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These contain antioxidants that help decrease inflammation and also help you get enough fiber.
3. Consider adding olive oil and/or fish oil to your diet.
4. Engage in exercise as your body allows. Moderate exercise has been shown to increase the effectiveness of vaccines.
5. Stay hydrated.
6. Lower stress levels.
7. Take immune-boosting supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, echinacea, garlic, and elderberry. Only purchase supplements that have been independently tested.

The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from the flu is get vaccinated. But you should also be careful of crowds, stay away from sick people, wash your hands, boost your immune system and consider wearing a mask in high-risk situations. Contact Senior Helpers: Milwaukee for more tips and to ask about our in-home senior care services.

Click here to view a short video about protecting yourself from the Flu.