This flu season is going to be challenging. Don’t wait until you get the flu. Do your part now to prevent spreading the virus!
It's flu season, which means it is time for a flu shot. The flu and COVID-19 may have similar symptoms, but a COVID vaccine will not protect you from the flu and vice versa.
Flu Shot and COVID Vaccine Information
Getting a flu shot this year is as important as it has been in the past. This year’s vaccine protects against four strains. It is approved and recommended for everyone six months or older. The CDC reports that peak flu season isn’t until February. However, they recommend that people not wait to get the vaccine.
The Arkansas Department of Health has a list of resources for flu shot sites and COVID vaccine clinic sites. Both are free, but be sure to bring your insurance information with you if you have it. The state will start offering flu shots at local health units on September 21. The Department of Health is also hosting several COVID vaccine clinics throughout the month of September.
Check for Flu or COVID Symptoms
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shared symptoms of both viruses include:
- Fever, chills or feeling feverish
- Cough or sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Prevention Tips
Prevent the spread of the flu by washing your hands, sneezing and coughing into your elbow, working from home. Stay home if you don’t feel well. Regularly clean high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, handles, light switches, etc.) in your home.
Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is similar to protecting yourself and others against the flu. Get a COVID vaccine. Wash your hands frequently. Monitor your symptoms and stay home if you feel sick.
According to the CDC, getting the COVID vaccine is the best way to protect against the virus. Fully vaccinated people can get the Delta variant, but their symptoms are less serious. The vaccine is approved for use in everyone 5 years and older. Getting it will help protect yourself, your family and other unvaccinated people around you.
Business owners can also take steps to keep employees healthy. These include allowing them to work remotely and reminding them about getting their flu shot and COVID vaccine. Other safety measures include regularly cleaning shared work areas and placing hand sanitizer throughout the workplace.
