Flu Season Is Here—Are You Ready?
Every year, flu season sneaks up on us, bringing coughing, sneezing, fevers, and overall misery. If you've ever had the flu, you know just how brutal it can be—days in bed, missed work, and feeling completely wiped out. But here's the good news: you can take steps to protect yourself and your family before the flu takes over your household.
Your local pharmacy is one of your best allies in staying healthy this flu season. From flu shots to immune-boosting advice, Counts Family Pharmacy is here to help you prepare, prevent, and recover.
1. Get Your Flu Shot—It’s Your Best Defense
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to reduce your risk of getting sick. It lowers your chances of catching the flu and helps protect vulnerable people around you, like young children, seniors, and those with chronic conditions.
Why You Should Get Vaccinated:
- The flu virus changes every year, so last year's shot won't cut it.
- It reduces the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.
- Getting vaccinated early in the season (September–October) offers the best protection.
You can contact Counts Family Pharmacy to schedule your flu shot and stay ahead of the game.
2. Stock Up on Flu Season Essentials
Don’t wait until you're sick to grab the supplies you need. Having flu season must-haves on hand can make all the difference in how quickly you recover.
What to Keep in Your Flu Kit:
- Over-the-counter medications – Pain relievers, decongestants, and cough medicine can help manage symptoms.
- Electrolyte drinks – Staying hydrated is key to recovery.
- Tissues, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes – Keep germs at bay!
- A working thermometer – Knowing when a fever is getting too high is crucial.
If you're unsure about what flu remedies are right for you, the pharmacists at Counts Family Pharmacy can help recommend the best options for your symptoms.
3. Boost Your Immune System Before Flu Hits
A strong immune system is your best natural defense against the flu. Taking care of your body before flu season peaks can help you fight off infections faster.
Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Immune System:
- Eat a balanced diet – Focus on foods rich in vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants.
- Stay hydrated – Water, herbal teas, and broth-based soups keep your body running smoothly.
- Get plenty of rest – Your body needs at least 7–9 hours of sleep to function at its best.
- Wash your hands frequently – One of the easiest ways to prevent germs from spreading.
If you need immune-boosting vitamins or supplements, Counts Family Pharmacy has you covered.
4. Know the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu
Not every sniffle is the flu! Sometimes, what feels like the flu is just a nasty cold. But how can you tell the difference?
| Symptom | Cold | Flu |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Common (101°F or higher) |
| Body Aches | Mild | Severe |
| Cough | Mild to moderate | Dry, hacking |
| Fatigue | Mild | Extreme |
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden |
If you’re unsure whether you have a cold or the flu, the pharmacists at Counts Family Pharmacy can help guide you on the best treatment options.
5. What to Do If You Get the Flu
Even with the best precautions, sometimes the flu still gets you. If you start feeling those telltale flu symptoms, act fast to minimize how long you’ll be sick.
Steps to Take When You Have the Flu:
- Rest as much as possible – Your body needs energy to fight the virus.
- Drink plenty of fluids – Dehydration makes flu symptoms worse.
- Take fever reducers and pain relievers – Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help ease discomfort.
- Stay home! – Avoid spreading the flu to others, especially within the first 48 hours.
If your symptoms get worse or last longer than expected, check with your healthcare provider or reach out to Counts Family Pharmacy for advice on what to do next.
6. Protect Others—Don’t Spread the Flu!
Flu spreads fast, but you can do your part to keep it from running through your household or workplace.
Flu Prevention Tips:
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Sanitize commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.
- Wear a mask if you’re sick and need to be around others.
- Encourage family members to get vaccinated to reduce overall risk.
Stay Healthy with Counts Family Pharmacy
Flu season doesn’t have to take you down! By getting vaccinated, boosting your immune system, and taking smart precautions, you can avoid the worst of flu season and recover faster if you do get sick.
At Counts Family Pharmacy, we’re here to help you stay healthy all year long. Whether you need a flu shot, symptom relief, or expert advice, our team is ready to assist.
Need a flu shot or have questions? Contact us today and let’s get you prepared for flu season!