Maine’s Flu Season is On the Horizon So It’s Time to Get Your Shot

Flu season starts shortly after classes go in for the year, so now is a great time to get your flu shot.

The Maine CDC Advises Flu Shots But I Know It's Not Everyone's Cup of Tea

Before I go any further, let me acknowledge that not everyone is on board with the idea of flu vaccines.

I agree that whether or not to get the shot is each individual's choice.

READ MORE: 10 Fun Ways to Keep Tykes Busy While Older Siblings are in School

I respect everyone's personal opinion on the matter, but will say that I get mine every year.

I know the shots won't prevent me from getting sick, but it will reduce the length of the illness. I'm okay with that.

Maine Residents Should Start Watching for Flu Symptoms Once School Goes In

It may seem early to talk about influenza, but the season typically starts in late September to mid-October, right after the kids go back to school and start sharing those germs.

Get our free mobile app

Soon we'll be watching for the symptoms of the flu, including:

• Cough
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Fever or chills
• Congestion or runny nose
• Body and muscle aches

Other symptoms can include nausea and/or vomiting, as well as fatigue, and diarrhea.

Most at-risk of developing complications from the flu are people over the age of 65, children under the age of 5, and anyone with underlying respiratory illnesses.

Mainers are Advised to Take Precautions Against the Flu

We all learned, during the pandemic, what types of things we can do to prevent catching a flu virus.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes
• Stay home if you're sick and, if not, avoid contact with those who are ill

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention advises getting a flu vaccine.

Again, it won't prevent you from getting sick, but will shorten the duration of the illness and lessen the symptoms.

I'm already scheduling mine, as well as an RSV vaccine, after losing over a week of work last winter to the latter.

Be well.