This year, National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is December 1 - 7 and is a great time to encourage all Minnesotans to get their flu vaccine. Flu season doesn't usually peak until February, so let's keep vaccinating!

The flu can be dangerous and result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. The flu can sometimes even lead to death. All people are at risk for serious flu-related complications and certain groups, such as young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, asthma or lung disease, and people 65 years and older, are at higher risk.

Flu Symptoms May Include:

• Cough
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Feeling tired
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Fever or feeling feverish
• Chills

Getting a flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting against the flu and its serious complications. Annual vaccination is important because influenza is unpredictable, flu viruses are constantly changing, and immunity from vaccination declines over time.

Tips for Staying Healthy this Flu Season

In addition to getting a flu shot, here are a few preventative measures you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.

3. If you have the flu, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. (Your fever should be gone without using a fever-reducing medicine.)

4. Clean surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them, like doorknobs. Use hot, soapy water or a household cleaner.

5. Boost your immune system by getting adequate sleep, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, drinking lots of water, and taking time to exercise.

Get Your Flu Shot at Metro OBGYN

Flu viruses are continuously changing, and this season's vaccines have been updated to protect against the viruses that will be most common this year. Additionally, your immune protection from a vaccine declines over time, so annual flu shots are needed for the best protection against the flu.

Request an appointment with Metro OBGYN to receive your flu shot!