There’s plenty to be divided about these days — national politics, local budgets and whether pumpkin spice is actually yummy — but if there’s one thing most people can agree on it’s that having the flu is the absolute worst.

The flu is out in full force already. | Gif by Giphy

Erlanger reported more than triple last year’s amount of flu-like illnesses in the first three weeks of the sickness season.

- 37: cases reported this time last year at Erlanger
- 112: cases reported this year at Erlanger
- 203: percent increase over last year

The health department’s numbers are also up over last year.

- 88: cases reported this time last year at health department
- 237: cases reported this year at health department
- 169: percent increase over last year

The numbers will be updated throughout the season here from the health department.

Doctors said they want to spread the word that the best way to avoid the flu is to get the vaccine. And it’s not only to protect yourself.

Why get the vaccine?

It reduces severity + duration of the flu if you do it get.
It protects vulnerable populations, children + elderly and pregnant patients, who are at a higher risk of serious illness or death.
When the virus reaches someone who is vaccinated, they are both less likely to get the flu + less likely to transmit it to others, according to the health department.
The CDC recommends everyone 6 months or older to get a flu vaccine by the end of October.
The more people who are vaccinated, the more difficult it is for the virus to spread.

Where do I get a flu shot?

*Editor's update: Local Walgreens may be low on supplies and saying them for elderly patients. They should get a new batch in the first week of November. We suggest you give these locations a call before you go, to be sure the supplies are available.

Walgreens: Walk-in or schedule an appointment, most insurance accepted
CVS: Schedule an appointment, most insurance accepted, $40 without insurance or $70 without insurance for high-dose
American Family Urgent Care: Walk-in or schedule an appointment
The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department: Walk-ins available at some locations or call for an appointment, free with most insurance (including Medicare + TennCare), $35 or $55 for high-dose

Other preventative measures

Wash hands often with soap and warm water.
Avoid people who are sick.
If you become sick, seek medical care, take antivirals if prescribed, and remain at home.
Cover your cough or sneeze, and if you do so with a tissue, throw it away – do not carry it around.
Keep your immune system healthy by quitting tobacco, eating healthy + being active.

Quiz

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