Seasonal Influenza (Flu)

Flu Shots

Vaccinations — Updated Dec 2024
Walk in for your flu shot at WNCCHS—Minnie Jones Health Center, Monday-Friday, from 1-3 PM. Let the front desk know that you want a flu shot.

What Patients Need to Know About the Flu

The flu is a contagious illness that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by influenza viruses. Knowing the symptoms, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself can help you stay healthy.

Symptoms: Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include:

Fever or chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Feeling very tired
Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)

Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

How It Spreads: The flu spreads through droplets when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch it by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

How to Protect Yourself:

Get a flu shot every year: This is the best way to prevent the flu.

Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer if soap isn’t available.

Avoid close contact with sick people: If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading the flu to others.

Cover your mouth and nose: Use a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Throw tissues away and wash your hands.

For more detailed guidance, visit the CDC website and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

What to Do If You Are Sick
with the Flu

If you think you have the flu, follow these steps to take care of yourself and protect others:

Stay Home: Rest and avoid being around others until your fever is gone for 24 hours without fever-reducing medicine.

Isolate: Stay in a separate room and, if possible, use a different bathroom than others in your home. This is especially important if you live with someone at high risk for flu complications, like children, older adults, or people with health problems.

Watch Your Symptoms: If your symptoms get worse or you have trouble breathing, chest pain, dizziness, confusion, or persistent vomiting, contact a healthcare provider right away.

Rest and Drink Fluids: Rest is key to recovering. Drink water, clear fluids, or soup to stay hydrated. Over-the-counter medicines can help with fever and body aches, but check with your doctor if you’re unsure what’s safe.

Follow Your Doctor’s Advice: If your doctor prescribes antiviral medicine, take it as directed. These medicines work best if started early and can help you recover faster.