Flu Season Is Starting Early. Here’s How to Protect Your Family

Flu season is getting an early start in the Tacoma area, and local health officials are encouraging families to prepare now. In an October 6 update, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department said flu-related emergency department visits have already reached levels it normally sees around Thanksgiving or in December. That makes this a useful moment to check your family’s protection before the calendar fills with fall activities and holiday gatherings.

Start with this season’s flu vaccine. Health officials recommend annual vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, and protection takes about two weeks to develop. Vaccination can reduce the risk of illness and serious complications, even when it doesn’t prevent infection entirely. Adults 65 and older should ask their pharmacist or healthcare provider about the flu vaccines preferred for their age group.

Everyday precautions matter, too. Wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and improve indoor airflow when possible. A well-fitting mask can add protection in crowded indoor places, particularly for someone at higher risk of becoming seriously ill. If someone in the household gets sick, limiting close contact and postponing visits with vulnerable relatives can help protect the rest of the family.

Pay particular attention to young children, adults 65 and older, pregnant people, and anyone with conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease or a weakened immune system. If someone in these groups develops flu symptoms, contact their healthcare provider promptly rather than waiting several days to see what happens. Prescription antiviral medicines work best when started within the first two days, although treatment can still help later, especially for people at higher risk or with severe illness.

If you develop a respiratory illness, stay home and away from others as much as possible. CDC’s general guidance allows a return to normal activities once symptoms have been improving overall and you’ve been fever-free without fever-reducing medicine for at least 24 hours. For the next five days, take extra precautions around others, such as masking, cleaner air and distancing. Follow any additional instructions from your healthcare provider, school or workplace.

Know when to seek help immediately: trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, or signs of significant dehydration warrant urgent medical attention. In children, warning signs also include bluish lips or face, difficulty waking or interacting, and no urine for eight hours. For prevention advice and help finding vaccination locations, visit the health department’s flu information page. A little preparation now can help protect both your household and the people you spend time with.