Flu Season This Fall: What You Need to Know

Labor Day is behind us—and flu season is already ahead. After last year’s record-breaking spike in cases, doctors say now is the time to get protected.“Last year in New York State was actually a record high number of cases—about 55,000 in a single week,” said Dr. Michael Traub, primary care physician with Crystal Run Healthcare. “We are definitely preparing.”Why Get the Flu Shot?Protect yourself: Each year’s vaccine targets the strains most likely to spread.Protect others: Getting vaccinated helps stop the virus from reaching vulnerable neighbors.Who’s Most at Risk?Adults 65+People with asthma, COPD, diabetes, or heart diseasePregnant womenNursing home or group home residentsFlu or COVID? How to TellBoth bring fever, cough, and congestion. Key differences:Flu: Vomiting or diarrhea is more common.COVID-19: Loss of taste or smell may show up. 👉 Best bet: Get tested within 2–3 days of symptoms.Other Healthy HabitsWash your handsStay home if you’re sickConsider masking in crowded spacesKeep chronic conditions under controlCan You Get Flu, COVID, and RSV Shots Together?Yes. All three can be given in the same visit—though you may want to space them out if you’d rather not have two sore arms at once.The Bottom Line“Just remember to get your shot,” Dr. Traub said. “I usually recommend patients do it by Halloween.”More info at crystalrunhealthcare.com.