For thousands of people across San Diego County every season, the flu means a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed. It also means many days of missed school and work. Complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections can also occur. Serious complications can result in hospitalization and sometimes death.
The most important step in protecting against flu is the annual flu vaccine. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. It is especially important for high-risk individuals, such as babies and young children, people with chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes, and people 65 years and older. Other ways to prevent the spread of flu is to practice frequent handwashing , cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent arm, avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes, and to stay home when sick.
Contact your school nurse for more information about where you and your family can get vaccinated and for more tips on staying healthy during the flu season.
