How to prepare for the cold and flu season
Oct 13, 2024, 6:00 AM | Updated: Nov 18, 2024, 3:15 pm
One way to prepare for the flu season is by getting a flu shot. This vaccine will activate your immune system to recognize the virus and fight it off. (Canva)
(Canva)
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SALT LAKE CITY — Now that it’s fall, it’s time to talk about the cold and flu season. Let this be a reminder that there are simple steps we can all take to stay healthy.
On the latest Let’s Get Moving podcast episode, Host Maria Shilaos spoke with Catherine Hamilton, Community Health Professor for the Arizona College of Nursing – Salt Lake City, to discuss some of the common questions people may have about the flu.
In order to tell the difference between a cold and the flu, you need to pay attention to your symptoms.
Flu symptoms can include a fever, aches and pains, muscle aches, and low energy. On the other hand, cold symptoms might not include the fever or the muscle aches. Therefore, the flu has far worse symptoms.
“It’s difficult for some people to overcome that and to get better,” said Hamilton. “It can be a long process to get well and to get back on your feet.”
Simple ways to stay healthy during the flu season
One way to prepare for the flu season is by getting a flu shot. This vaccine will activate your immune system to recognize the virus and fight it off.
A common question people ask is whether you can catch the flu even after getting the vaccine. The answer is yes.
Vaccines are manufactured based on how things were six months before. If any part of that environment changes, its effectiveness can also change.
“If that virus has mutated or changed in any way, sometimes the vaccine is not as effective. But mostly it is effective,” said Hamilton. “If you do get the flu and you’ve been vaccinated, it is less intense.”
Some other simple steps you can take to stay healthy are washing your hands frequently, not touching your face, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.
What to have in your medicine cabinet
It helps to keep your medicine cabinet stocked with some essentials in case you do catch a cold or the flu.
“I always recommend having some ibuprofen on hand or Acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Those help with aches and pains [and] fever,” said Hamilton.
Having a decongestant at home can also be helpful if you have a cold or nasal congestion.
Read more from the Let’s Get Moving podcast:
- What is reformer Pilates, and why is it good for us?
- Riding an e-bike can boost your health
- Make the most of your farmers market buys
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