The flu is a normal illness for most individuals. After a few days with a cough, body aches, fever and resting at home, most people are back to normal. However, some people are at a high risk for flu complications that can make them seriously ill.
There are some high-risk individuals for whom the flu can be very dangerous. It can cause them to have an extended stay at the hospital and in some cases, it can even lead to death.
Whether you have a high risk for flu complications, it’s still important to get the flu vaccine. Make an appointment with your primary care provider to either get the shot or discuss any concerns you may have.
Who has a high risk for flu complications?
The flu shot provides significant protection from illness. However, some people have a higher risk of developing serious flu symptoms if they contract it.
Older people
Senior citizens, especially over the age of 65, have a greater chance of having complications from the flu. This is because the older you get, the weaker your immune system becomes. This then means it is harder for your body to fight off germs.
Additionally, many older people have underlying health conditions such as lung disease, diabetes and heart disease. These health conditions on their own can cause complications with the flu.
If you fall in this age group, talk to your primary care provider about a high-dose flu shot. They are available for older adults and can sometimes work better for this age group than the normal flu vaccine.
Kids younger than 5
Young children, just like older adults, are at greater risk for complications from the flu. While senior citizens can have a weakened immune system, young children can run into issues because their immune system is still developing.
This can cause complications when it’s trying to fight off a virus, like the flu. This is especially true for babies and toddlers.
Women who are pregnant
Be sure to take extra flu precautions if you are pregnant or recently had a baby. During this time, your body is experiencing many changes. These changes could impact your immune system, causing it to not be as strong.
If you are pregnant, your unborn baby can be impacted by flu complications as well. It can mean birth defects as well as early labor. While it’s strongly recommended to get a flu shot during pregnancy to protect both you and your baby, talk to your OB-GYN if you have any questions or concerns.
Individuals with weakened immune systems or preexisting conditions
Any person of any age with a weakened immune system is at high risk for flu complications.
Your immune system could be weak for a variety of reasons, though. There are certain medicines and treatments, such as chemotherapy, that can make your immune system less strong.
Many chronic medical conditions impact immunity as well. They include:
- Metabolic disorders
- Kidney disease
- Obesity
- Stroke
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic lung disease
- Blood disorders
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Neurological (brain) conditions
- Congestive heart failure
What complications can the flu cause?
Most individuals who contract the flu virus will not experience complications or any long-term effects. There could be some minor ones though, such as a sinus or ear infection.
In more complicated scenarios the flu can become pneumonia, an infection that makes your lungs swell. Additionally, if a person has any underlying health conditions, the flu can cause these conditions to worsen.
Extreme cases of the flu can cause widespread infection throughout the body. Organs can stop working properly. The flu can even cause an increase in the risk for a heart attack.
How can I prevent the flu?
The best thing everyone can do to prevent the flu is to get your flu vaccine every year. People older than 6 months should get one. If you have any concerns, consult with your primary care provider first.
The flu shot is not 100 percent effective, even though it definitely helps prevent this virus. But because this is the cause, everyone should also practice preventive measures at this time. Luckily, these preventive measures can help protect us from the flu. They include:
- Washing your hands often, especially after you arrive home from being out in public
- Practicing social distancing from others when you feel unwell or others appear sick
- Wearing a face mask
And finally, keep your immune system strong during flu season by practicing healthy habits. This means reducing stress, eating healthy foods, staying active and getting your rest each night.
How we can help
Regardless of whether you’re at high risk for flu complications, getting the flu shot each year is the best way to avoid feeling miserable from the illness.
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, which may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat or body aches, make an appointment with your primary care provider. You may be encouraged to complete a virtual visit.
Learn more about the flu vaccine and the primary care services we offer at Bon Secours.
