Preventing The Flu

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the flu viruses.  Flu shots are more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. Protect yourself and those around you by getting your flu shot as soon as possible.

Flu Symptoms

Common flu symptoms often include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills (not everyone with the flu has a fever)
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Know whether it's the flu or another illness, such as COVID-19, can be challenging. Learn more here: Is it the flu or COVID-19?

Flu Shots

Getting a flu shot is one simple thing people can do to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy this fall and winter. It’s more important than ever as we continue to fight COVID-19.

While getting a flu shot won’t protect you from COVID-19, it’s a safe and effective way to prevent the flu. Plus, a flu shot can help essential workers stay healthy and preserve medical resources for patients with COVID-19.

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot, especially people with chronic health conditions, older adults, pregnant women, health care workers and children.

The flu vaccine may take up to two weeks to become effective, so getting it earlier in the season is ideal.

To get your flu shot, contact your primary care provider or check with your local pharmacy or use the Vaccine Finder link below.  Call your insurance company to find out where you may receive a flu shot. Many insurance companies cover flu shots for free. Find your vaccine here: Vaccine Finder.

Learn More About the Flu

Here, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes the flu and its often deadly impact: Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Severe outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of severe flu complications.  The best way to prevent flu is by getting vaccinated each year.

How to Prevent the Flu

Wash your hands:

  • Washing your hands often helps protect you from germs.
  • Use soap and warm water. Wash for 20 seconds.
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. You can find these products in most supermarkets and drugstores.
  • If the hand sanitizer is a gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel does not need water to work; the alcohol kills the germs on your hands.

Take everyday precautions:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your arm when you cough or sneeze.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Stay home if you get sick.
  • Clean work and household surfaces often.
  • If you have a chronic disease or a weakened immune system, follow your healthcare provider’s advice for your condition.
  • Ask your family, friends, and health providers to get a flu vaccination.

Remember: Practice good health habits. Get plenty of sleep and exercise, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy food.

Learn about flu prevention strategies from the Oregon Health Authority.

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