Approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized with the flu each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s hard to calculate the number of flu deaths each year, because states are not required to report them and not everyone who passes away with flu symptoms is tested for the flu. Depending on how severe the outbreak is, flu-related deaths range from around 3,000 to 49,000 each year.
The CDC recommends getting a flu shot to keep yourself and others safe. This is especially important if you spend time around older adults, young children, or anyone who has a compromised immune system, such as a friend who is undergoing cancer treatments. (You can learn more about how flu vaccine work on the CDC website.)
Flu Fact Sheet
Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Nausea
“Flu season” peaks between late November and early March. Flu is spread through droplets when people cough or sneeze, as well as on surfaces. Infected individuals are contagious one day before symptoms appear and up to week after. If you don’t feel well, take care of yourself and everyone around you by staying home. If you have a fever, don’t return to work for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.
How to Stay Healthy
The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone older than six months of age. October is the ideal time to receive the vaccination, but it’s never too late.
Beyond that, a lot of the basic tips for preventing the spread of illness apply. If you can, avoid being around sick people. Wash your hands frequently using soap and water. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your face. Disinfect any surfaces that could be contaminated, paying special attention to things like door knobs and cell phones. Eat healthy and work out regularly to keep your immune system working well this fall and winter.
Helping injured people is what we do at Schuerman Law, and we feel that it is important to share information to help you stay healthy and safe. Please share these flu safety tips with your network.
If you or a loved one has been injured, call our office today to schedule a free consultation. We’re on your side and we will help you get the compensation you deserve to offset the costs associated with a personal injury. John Schuerman is a compassionate advocate for injury victims. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. You can schedule a free consultation today by calling Schuerman Law at 1-800-274-0045.
