Don’t let the flu put a stop to holiday season

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) continues to encourage Wisconsinites to get a flu vaccine, to help them stay healthy while visiting family and friends this holiday season. The flu vaccine is the best tool to protect becoming ill with the flu.

Getting your flu vaccine at least two weeks before a gathering, gives the body time to build the immunity it needs to fight infection.

“This year, it is critical to make sure you and your family are protected,” said Dr. Jasmine Zapata, chief medical offi cer in the DHS Bureau of Community Health Promotion. “Research shows that getting your flu vaccine can reduce rates of hospitalizations, prevent illness and missed work, and save lives – including for children.”

The flu vaccine is recommended for people ages six months and older. Flu vaccination is especially important for people who are younger than five years old, over the age of 65, pregnant or have a chronic health condition. But, it is also important for others to get the flu vaccine to protect themselves, avoid spreading the flu to more vulnerable family members and friends.

The flu vaccine can be received at the same time as other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine.

In addition to getting a flu vaccine, other things to prevent the flu include washing hands regularly, cleaning surfaces and taking good care of the body. This also includes getting good sleep, drinking plenty of water, managing stress and exercising regularly.