As COVID-19 seems to be settling in for the long haul, it’s adding to the burden of the regular flu season. As if this combination weren’t bad enough, the news is full of reports about a triple threat as RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) joins the group.
If you want to protect your family against these viral infections this season (or help them through an illness), Dr. Scott Lafferty and the team here at Lafferty Family Care want to provide a few tips.
While the ideal window for a flu shot is before the season begins — in September and October — it’s not too late to protect yourself.
Each year, between 9 and 41 million people in the United States get the flu. By early December of this year’s flu season, 13 million cases of flu were already reported. This could mean that the numbers may be relatively high this year, which makes getting a flu shot later in the game a viable option.
As well, if you haven’t had your COVID-19 boosters, any time is a good time for these shots.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re all well versed in protective measures, which work well against each of these viral infections.
These protective measures include:
While we’re not suggesting social distancing again, be mindful of a child with the sniffles or an adult with a cough. This also extends to a member of your family. If a loved one (or yourself) gets ill, try to isolate as much as possible to prevent infecting the whole family.
Another great way to protect yourself is to promote good health from every possible angle, including your immune health. We suggest ensuring that you and your family are getting the vital nutrients and antioxidants your body needs to fight off infection. While we can suggest some supplements, you can also get these resources through your diet in the form of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins.
Another great way to keep your body strong is to stay active through the winter months. Taking walks or playing sports outside is a great way to get some fresh air and promote better heart health.
If you or a member of your family does get sick, there are a few steps you can take at home to weather an illness, such as:
In most cases, illnesses last about 4-7 days, so be patient as the infection runs its course.
If the symptoms of the virus aren’t clearing after a week or they’re changing, it’s time to seek our help. This is especially true for those who are at higher risk for complications, such as the elderly, very young, and people with pre-existing health issues like asthma or heart disease.
To schedule an appointment at our office in Bentonville, Arkansas, simply click here.
