Flu Care and Prevention

The flu, or influenza, infects millions of people every year. Though common, the flu can be dangerous for older people, babies and people with weak immune systems. Nearly 500,000 people ended up in the hospital because of the flu during the 2018–2019 flu season. The best treatment? Prevention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone age 6 months and older get the flu vaccine every year.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it's more important than ever to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses. COVID-19, influenza and colds are all caused by viruses. While colds are common and generally mild, both COVID-19 and the flu can be serious or life-threatening. Having these viruses at the same time could be extremely dangerous.

Staying healthy helps make sure there’s room in the hospital for people who are seriously ill. The best way to avoid the flu is by getting a flu shot. Flu shots can also help you avoid becoming sick with both viruses simultaneously. A vaccine for COVID-19 is in the works, but not yet available.

If you suspect you have COVID-19, review our resources page for more information.

What Is the Flu?

Seasonal influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. It spreads through coughing, sneezing or touching items a sick person has touched. Although similar to a cold, flu symptoms are more severe and include fever, body aches, chills, coughing, congestion, headache and fatigue.

Flu Prevention

The most effective way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot every year. Getting a flu shot is quick and easy. The Sutter Health network offers a variety of ways to get your flu shot.

When should you get the flu vaccine? Get a flu shot in early fall to give yourself the most protection during flu season. However, you still can benefit if you get your flu shot by mid-winter.

The flu vaccine not only prevents you from getting sick but also helps prevent the spread of flu to vulnerable people. Some people are especially vulnerable to flu, including young children, senior citizens and people with compromised immune systems. Sutter care centers offer a high-dose flu vaccine that may provide added protection for older adults.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly advise pregnant women to get vaccinated as well, since they’re more likely to have complications that require hospitalization. Learn more about pregnancy and the flu.

Protect Yourself and Others

Like most vaccines, the flu shot isn’t foolproof, so protect yourself and others with good hygiene. Use alcohol-based sanitizer or wash your hands frequently, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.

If you do get the flu, drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest and take acetaminophen for fever and over-the-counter decongestants for symptom relief, as directed by your doctor. Stay home and avoid other people, especially those who are high risk.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm. Once you’re symptom-free and feverless without the help of medication, stay home an additional 24 to 48 hours to prevent spreading the flu to others.

If you’re in one of the high-risk groups and you get the flu, contact your doctor. They can treat you with antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), to help lessen the severity and duration of the illness.

What to Do If You Get the Flu

If you have flu symptoms, schedule a Video Visit or contact your care team through My Health Online. Don’t have a primary care doctor? We can help.