Oct 3, 2011

Flu season is officially here - it runs from October to May. Dr. Laura Howard of Palmyra Medical Associates is encouraging everyone to roll up their sleeve and get a flu shot.

Symptoms of the flu include those similar to the common cold like sore throat, cough, runny nose. People may also experience headaches, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Symptoms of the flu can last for about a week, but you can remain contagious for up to a week after they appear. Anyone can get the flu, but children, the elderly, pregnant women and health care workers are more at risk for complications.

You can prevent the flu by washing your hands, covering your mouth when you cough, avoiding people who may have the flu and getting a flu shot.

This year's vaccine includes coverage for three strains including H1N1. The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get the flu vaccine.

Keeping with the theme of vaccines Dr. Howard says the chance for pertussis or whooping cough is increasing, so the CDC recommends all adults get a one time booster shot.