This season's #flu is bringing fresh twists to a familiar theme. Here are seven things you should know to stay safe. 🧵 ⬇️
1️⃣ Flu season got an early start. When cases surge early, that usually means it's going to be a rough season.
2️⃣ This season, the flu comes with friends, COVID-19 and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus. The three viruses are entirely different and provide no cross-protection.
2️⃣ This season, the flu comes with friends, COVID-19 and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus. The three viruses are entirely different and provide no cross-protection.
3️⃣ The flu is more than a respiratory ailment. Flu can exacerbate existing medical conditions such as heart disease. A 2018 study found that the risk of having a heart attack was 6X higher within a week of having the flu.
4️⃣ Vaccination levels have fallen this year.
4️⃣ Vaccination levels have fallen this year.
5️⃣ Vaccinated people have an advantage vs. flu. Dr. Margot Savoy explains: "If I told you I was going to send a bear to chase you, & you had two choices – I could give you a 5-minute head start, or I'm going to let you & the bear out at the same time – which would you choose?"
6️⃣ The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. For people 65 and older, the CDC now recommends one of three higher-dose vaccines, if available.
7️⃣ It's not too late to get a flu shot, but it can take a few weeks for full immunity from vaccination to kick in. Also:
👉 wash hands often
👉 clean frequently touched surfaces
👉 cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
👉 wear a mask
👉 stay home when sick
👉 wash hands often
👉 clean frequently touched surfaces
👉 cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
👉 wear a mask
👉 stay home when sick
More on how to #fightflu: spr.ly/60193BQEz
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