Even though the influenza virus was identified close to a century ago, it continues to wreak havoc on our health, and because it is usually a winter virus, our holiday plans! Symptoms of cough, fever, and malaise  are familiar and can range from mild to severe. People with many underlying health conditions are at increased risk of complications if they get the flu, so they should seek medical care promptly if they become ill. Several treatments are available which can alleviate symptoms and reduce the chance of complications. Treatments are most effective if started within 48 hours of symptoms onset, so time is of the essence. Medications can also be used in some high-risk individuals as preventative medication after exposure.

Influenza vaccination continues to be a mainstay of individual and community public health each flu season. Vaccination timing is variable, based on expert predictions each year, but usually begins in the US around the end of October. Many primary care offices and pharmacies offer influenza vaccination and the Lab’s Health Services holds vaccination clinics every year for your convenience. You may also schedule an individual appointment for vaccination with the Lab’s Health Services. 

This year, for the first time, FDA-approved home tests are now available for influenza A and B (in combination with testing, in many cases, for Covid). If you feel ill, this testing can permit quicker diagnosis and treatment. Tests are fairly accurate, inexpensive, and becoming widely available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers.

Key points

• Know whether you and your family members have a health condition or other factor that puts them at higher risk of doing poorly if they are infected with influenza. This affects treatment and other decisions. 
• Those at higher health risk benefit the most from vaccination, but unless someone has had an adverse reaction to the flu vaccine or other good reason not to receive it, vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months or older.
• If you know someone has the flu, keep your distance
• Proper hand hygiene reduces the spread of influenza and helps us protect ourselves and others.
• If you start to feel sick at home, seek medical care and do not come to work.
• If you start to feel ill at work, it is best to let your supervisor know, leave work, and seek medical care.