Flu Season is Right Around the Corner

Even though we’re in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we can’t forget that flu season will be here before too long and it would be wise to take precautions to avoid as much further strain as possible on the city’s medical resources.

Flu season typically begins in December and can stretch into May. Peak months in El Paso are from January through April.  It may have gotten lost in the shuffle once the coronavirus turned into a global pandemic, but the flu has been particularly aggressive in El Paso the past two years.  This last flu season saw 2,000 more reported cases than the previous year and resulted in a significant increase of people missing work and school.

The flu coupled with COVID has the potential to cause even more hardship and chaos.  Medical professionals are already spread thin battling coronavirus, so take as many precautions as possible to keep yourself and those around you healthy.

While unpopular with some people, the CDC says, “the single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year.”  With that said, the ideal time to get your flu shot is between now and the end of September.

If you’ve been practicing social distancing and other guidelines due to coronavirus, then you’re also already protecting yourself and others against the flu.  These include habits such as avoiding close contact, covering your mouth or nose when coughing and sneezing, washing your hands, and avoid touching your face.  Also, if your sick, don’t go to work or school.

For more information on how to best prevent catching the flu, you may visit the CDC’s website by clicking here.