With An Early Rise In Flu Cases, San Diegans Urged To Get Vaccine

This article is not medical advice.

With the arrival of flu season, the San Diego County Health & Human Services Agency continues to urge San Diegans to get their flu vaccination before influenza activity increases in the region. This warning comes after officials reported 154 flu cases for the week ending Dec. 11.

With the total number of county residents who have been vaccinated being far below last year’s numbers, county officials are stressing the importance of getting vaccinated, especially since COVID-19 is still negatively affecting nearby communities.

In addition to receiving the flu shot, there are steps you can take to prevent contracting or spreading of the flu. It's also important to know the signs and symptoms of influenza — so if you are infected, you can get the help you need. Here are some helpful safety tips to follow, as well as some commonly asked questions about both the flu and the vaccine.

What Is The Flu?

The flu is a respiratory illness originating from a series of influenza viruses. Up to 20 percent of Americans come down with the flu each year with varying symptoms. Some people may be asymptomatic or only have minor symptoms they attribute to a cold. However, 8 percent of the population will have more-moderate to serious symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Cough

With COVID-19 still present, it's more important than ever to take proper care in protecting yourself and others against the flu and other diseases. People with obesity, young children, adults over 65, pregnant women, those with underlying conditions and those who are immunocompromised are at increased risk of these complications from both the flu and the coronavirus.

Why Should I Get The Flu Shot?

While you can catch seasonal influenza viruses year-round, flu viruses are most common during the fall and winter, with flu activity peaking between December and February, according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, significant activity can last as late as May. Getting the flu vaccine (also known as the flu shot) is one way you can protect yourself from the flu.

The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for those 6 months and older with few exceptions, such as those with allergies to the ingredients in the vaccine or the vaccine itself. The flu shot works by giving your body the chance to build up an immune response against the flu virus by producing antibodies. Even if you get the flu after being vaccinated, there's less of a chance you'll have a severe reaction. Since it takes about two weeks for immunity to develop, it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible to avoid contracting the flu or experiencing severe symptoms.

How To Avoid Catching The Flu

The best way to treat the flu is to prevent it — which is why you should get a flu shot every year, ideally at the start of the flu season. However, you can still get the flu shot later in the year. If the cost of the flu vaccine has left you somewhat hesitant, GoodRx provides a convenient way to find more affordable flu shots in California.

The GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program has partnered with various pharmacies including Walgreens, Albertsons and Weis to offer you low prices on the flu vaccine. Using GoodRx's flu vaccine finder, you're able to search for pharmacies in your area that are participating in the GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program. The usual price for a flu vaccine can be up to $90. With the GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program, these prices can drop down to as low as $25 per vaccine. Simply bring your GoodRx coupon to a participating pharmacy and receive your flu vaccine of choice.

In addition, taking the following preventive steps in your everyday life can help to avoid getting or spreading the flu:

• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Stay away from people if you are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes in your elbow or, better yet, in a tissue that you throw away right afterward.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If that’s not possible, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Keep your hands away from your face to avoid spreading germs.
• Wear a mask if appropriate.

Treatments For The Flu

If you do contract the flu, the best thing you can do is to stay home, rest and drink plenty of fluids. If possible, keep your distance from those you live with and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

Those with the flu can most likely treat their symptoms at home. However, they should contact their doctor if they're more at risk for flu complications or their symptoms worsen or turn into signs of an emergency, such as chest pain, seizures or constant dizziness. Options to treat the flu include:

• Antiviral drugs. When promptly taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, an antiviral drug lessen the severity of flu symptoms. Common flu medications prescribed by a doctor include Tamiflu,Xofluza,Relenza andRapivab.
• Over-the-counter medication. A doctor may recommend combining over-the-counter medication with prescription antiviral treatments. If you are congested, a decongestant may be effective, while antihistamines may be helpful for itchy eyes or sneezing.

It's important to mention that anyone who chooses to take medication should first consult a physician or medical professional. Once a medication or dosage is approved, the easy-to-use (and free!) GoodRx app can help you find the most affordable price in your area for your prescription drugs. Visit GoodRx to learn more.

How GoodRx Can Help

In addition to helping you find a flu vaccine appointment or getting the best price for any medications you may be prescribed, GoodRx lets you talk to a medical professional about your symptoms without leaving your home thanks to GoodRx Care. They can help determine if you are at risk and could benefit from oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or other antiviral treatment. Visit GoodRx Care to start your visit.

Ready to receive your flu shot? Visit the GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program website to find an affordable flu shot at a pharmacy near you.