As we enter flu season amidst the coronavirus pandemic, deciphering symptoms of influenza (also known as the flu) vs. COVID-19 is one of the more common questions we face. With very similar symptoms, how can we tell the difference? Let’s break down what we know about each virus. Flu and COVID-19 similarities and differences Both …
As COVID-19 continues to be an ever-present concern, we are on the cusp of another more familiar virus that will soon be vying for our attention — influenza. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over the past five years, an average of 32.6 million Americans a year had symptoms related to …
Why getting a flu shot is especially important this year Read More »
Getting the flu vaccine is your first (and most obvious step) in preventing a nasty bout of flu this season, but after you’ve crossed that off your to-do list, your work isn’t over. There are other steps you can take to help keep you and your family healthy all flu season long. Haven’t gotten your …
5 ways to boost your immune system for flu season Read More »
Last year, more than 80,000 people died of the flu and its complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This statistic is especially concerning for those with chronic health conditions like diabetes, who are considered “high risk.” I encourage all my patients to get the flu shot each year. But my …
Why people with diabetes are at high risk for the flu Read More »
Influenza and heart attack are things we don’t normally associate together, but the two are more connected than you might think. A recent study found that a person’s chances of having a heart attack, or myocardial infarction, increase significantly after a flu diagnosis. In the study, people who had been diagnosed with the flu in …
Have you ever hesitated to get the flu shot? Maybe because you didn’t have the time, or thought you were invincible to catching the virus? As flu season is upon us once again, there’s something you need to know: Getting a flu shot isn’t all about you. It’s also about the people who are unable …
Herd immunity: Why getting the flu shot isn’t all about you Read More »
It’s that time of year again. The weather cools (in theory), the smell of pumpkin spice latte is in the air and the many strands of influenza stretch their legs and begin infecting my sweet, unsuspecting patients. There’s a lot of information out there on how to avoid the flu, but I am here to tell …
What to do (and not to do) when you have the flu Read More »
The flu can attack anyone, but some people are more susceptible to the virus than others. As physicians, we believe it is important that you know your risks and how to prevent the flu before it gets you. Who’s Susceptible? Those at higher risk for developing influenza are residents in nursing homes and long-term care …
It’s that time of year again, when we’re all being urged to get our flu shots. Many moms-to-be often ask me whether it’s safe for them to get vaccinated. The answer is yes, it is safe, and it’s strongly recommended no matter where you are in your pregnancy. Pregnant women are more likely to get …
In a matter of days, you’ve succumbed to all of the typical flu symptoms – fever, chills, body aches and a cough that just won’t let up. But what you don’t know is that your cough is really an infection and you are getting sicker by the day. While many people who experience the flu …
Severe flu patients turn to ECMO as last lifeline Read More »