Respiratory and stomach viruses are common throughout the year, but during the winter months they tend to spread more easily as people spend more time indoors and in close contact with one another. Understanding which viruses are circulating and taking steps to protect yourself can help keep you and your loved ones healthy. Dr. Charles Maclean from Cameron Urgent Care shared his expertise on how to tackle cold and flu season.
How to Protect Yourself and Others
Here are practical steps you can take to stay healthy this season:
1. Get Vaccinated
- Flu Vaccine: The flu vaccine is still recommended, even if the season is underway, and can help prevent more severe symptoms. Cameron’s Retail Pharmacy offers the flu vaccine throughout the fall and winter season until the supply is exhausted. For more details, contact the Retail Pharmacy here: (260) 667-5645
- COVID‑19 Vaccine/Booster: Staying up‑to‑date can reduce your risk of severe COVID illness.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds each time for thorough cleaning
- Avoid touching your face
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve
3. Avoid Spreading Germs
- Stay home when sick, especially if you have a fever
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings, especially if you are at higher risk for illness.
- Clean commonly touched surfaces frequently using an EPA-registered disinfectant or a solution containing at least 70% alcohol.
What to Do If You Get Sick
If you start feeling unwell:
· Rest & stay hydrated
· Use over‑the‑counter medicines for fever and aches
· Isolate from others in your household if possible
Visit Cameron Urgent Care or your primary healthcare provider if you experience:
· Difficulty breathing
· Severe fatigue
· High fever that doesn’t improve, generally 102°F for adults and 100°F for children
· Dehydration (especially with norovirus)
· Flu symptoms in newborns, elderly, or those with chronic conditions
If you are experiencing chest pain, it is important to be evaluated by the ER, especially if accompanied by other symptoms of illness as a more thorough examination is typically needed.
Virus season is one that impacts all of us every winter, but with simple precautions like vaccines, good hygiene, and staying home when sick, you can protect yourself and the people around you.
If you or a family member is feeling ill, Cameron Urgent Care is here to help with testing and evaluation so you can get back to feeling your best. Check out Cameron Urgent Care here: Cameron Urgent Care | Cameron Health