Flu season is fast approaching and, while we’re never quite sure when it will hit, right now is a good time to start preparing yourself. Flu season in the U.S. was particularly bad last year, and seniors are at more of a risk than anyone else, with flu symptoms and their complications being potentially fatal.

Don’t get caught off guard this flu season, follow these tips to prepare yourself and your loved ones.

Get vaccinated

Flu vaccinations are essential for lowering your chances of getting the flu. The CDC claims that vaccinations reduce flu risks by 40-60% during flu season. Flu vaccinations are updated each year to match the current strain, as illnesses like cold and flu strains are constantly evolving. You should try to get your flu shot by the end of October to make sure that your immunity sets in with plenty of time before symptoms start showing.

Recognize the symptoms

It can be easy to pass flu symptoms off as a simple cold, so it’s important that you know what the flu looks like. This will help you to get treatment as soon as possible when it is needed. It can also help you to avoid close contact with others who are showing flu symptoms, helping to prevent the spread of infection. Symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Chills and sweats

Practice good hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene can also help to contain the spread of infection, both to you and from you if you do become sick. You should make sure that you are washing your hands regularly with soap, especially after sneezing or coughing, and before eating or preparing food. Cleaning surfaces in your home regularly can also help to eliminate germs.

Assemble your survival kit

If you do become sick, it is better to stay home as much as possible to avoid spreading the illness to others. In this case, you want to make sure that you’re well prepared and have everything you need in your home. Water is essential, but you may also want to stock drinks like herbal teas and sports drinks to keep you hydrated. Cold medications and aspirin can also help to minimize symptoms, and you may also want things like cough syrup and saline drops. Of course, a good supply of tissues is also recommended.

Are you ready for this flu season? If you or an elderly family member need additional care solutions during this season, then get in touch with Brookstone for assisted living facilities in Clemmons, North Carolina.