It’s that time of year. We have settled into our fall activities – kid’s soccer games; cheering for our favorite high school, college or professional football team; looking through our closets and pulling out the warmer clothing; and spending countless hours sifting through those yummy crockpot recipes to find appealing, tasty and healthy meals to serve to our families and friends.
As a reminder, it’s also flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine. Also, people at high risk—meaning infants and children, pregnant women, seniors, people with health conditions, people with disabilities, people with health conditions, travelers, and people living abroad—should get the vaccine. And, if you live or care for a high-risk individual, this means you too.
Getting the vaccine (either by nasal spray or injection) couldn’t be easier. It’s not just available at medical offices; in many instances you can get it at your local pharmacy, whether it’s around the corner or at your favorite supermarket. And as a reminder, it’s important to practice good health habits to stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. So, avoid close contact with people who are sick; if possible, stay home when you’re sick; cover your mouth or nose when you cough or sneeze; wash your hands often; and avoid touching your face.