Cold and Flu

It’s nice to get close to the ones you love. But during flu season, that can mean spreading germs. All it takes is a cough or sneeze. So protect yourself, and those around you, by getting a flu shot. Then snuggle up close to your loved ones.

What you should know about flu season?

• Washing your hands often with soap or gel hand sanitizers can help protect you from getting sick.
• During flu season, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Getting vaccinated early gives you better protection all season long. It takes from two to four weeks for your body to develop immunity once you receive the flu shot.
• You can’t get the flu from the flu shot.
• Eating a healthful diet and exercising regularly will help. Also, get plenty of rest and manage your stress.
• If you come down with the flu, take care of your-self. There are over-the-counter remedies that can help ease your symptoms as your body heals itself. Remember to cover your cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue so that you don’t get others sick.
• Antibiotics won’t help the flu or cold and chest cold

Where and when to get a flu shot?

Our flu shot clinics are open from mid-October through December. If you’re at high risk, plan on getting immunized early. If you don’t get to one of our flu clinics this fall, you can still get a flu shot from your personal practitioner. Shots received from January through March will still help protect you from the flu during flu season.

For flu clinic information, visit kp.org/flu

For information about getting a flu shot near you, call our local flu hotline:

• English: (415) 444-4154 or (707) 765-3560
• Spanish: (415) 444-4200 or (707) 765-3660

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