Artículo
Tu guía de supervivencia en la temporada de gripe: Cómo mantenerte sano esta temporada
La temporada de gripe ha llegado oficialmente, y alcanzará su punto máximo entre diciembre y febrero. Esta época del año trae un aumento brusco de fiebres, tos y días de baja. Aunque la gripe es común, puede afectar con fuerza, especialmente en niños pequeños, adultos mayores y personas con enfermedades crónicas. The good news? Most flu cases can be prevented or made much milder with proactive care
Dr. Binu Kuriakose, Medical Director of Urgent Care at Essen Health Care and board-certified in Internal Medicine, encourages everyone, regardless of age, to take proactive steps this flu season to safeguard their health. Simple actions like vaccination, handwashing, and early care can reduce your risk of getting sick and help protect those around you.
Flu season isn't just a time to be cautious; instead, it's a reminder to take control of your health. Understanding how the flu spreads, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect yourself can make a big difference.
What to Know About the Flu?
The flu is more than the common cold. It's a severe virus that affects your lungs, breathing, and whole-body health.
For 2023–2024, the CDC estimates that there were approximately 40 million flu-related illnesses, resulting in nearly 470,000 hospitalizations and approximately 28,000 influenza-related deaths.
While older adults are more likely to suffer serious complications, people of all ages, including children and healthy adults, can become very sick, resulting in hospitalization or death.
An annual flu shot is the most effective step you can take to protect yourself and those around you.
Because of how common and powerful this virus is, knowing the risks and taking action really matters.
How to Protect Yourself This Flu Season?
Flu season can be challenging, but taking preventive steps can greatly reduce your risk of getting sick. Dr. Kuriakose recommends these key strategies:
The flu shot is your best defense against severe illness. It can help prevent hospitalizations and complications, even if you do catch the flu.
Proper handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds removes germs and reduces the chance of infection.
Use your elbow or a tissue to prevent spreading germs to others. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.
If someone around you is unwell, try to maintain distance and limit shared spaces to reduce the risk of catching their virus.
Regularly clean doorknobs, phones, keyboards, and other surfaces that may harbor germs.
Taking these simple steps can significantly lower your risk of getting sick and help keep your family healthier during flu season.
Recognizing Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Care
Flu symptoms can appear suddenly and often feel more severe than a typical cold. Dr. Kuriakose recommends watching for common signs, including:
- Fever or chills
- Cough or sore throat
- Headache
- Muscle or body aches
- Feeling very tired
While most people recover at home, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention, especially for children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Seek care immediately if you notice:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or confusion
- High fever that doesn’t improve
- Severe dehydration, such as very little urine or extreme weakness
If you're ever unsure, it's always safest to contact your healthcare provider. Essen Health Care's urgent care centers are available to provide care at your convenience. With several locations across the Bronx and accepting walk-ins, we are here to care for you and your family.
Your Flu Season Survival Plan
Flu season can be tough, but having a plan can help you reduce your risk and help you recover if you contract the flu. Dr. Kuriakose recommends these strategies to stay healthy and bounce back more quickly:
The flu shot is the best way to protect yourself. It's not too late to get vaccinated.
Resting at home not only helps your body recover, it also prevents passing the flu to family, friends, and coworkers.
Drinking plenty of fluids and giving your body adequate rest are essential for a faster recovery.
Over-the-counter medications can help manage a fever and aches. Always follow your doctor's instructions and dosing guidelines.
If your flu symptoms don’t improve after a few days, or if they worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
By taking these simple steps, you can help your body fight the flu more effectively and reduce the chance of spreading it to others.
Stay Prepared, Stay Healthy This Flu Season
Flu season doesn't have to take you by surprise. With the right preparation and awareness, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community. From getting vaccinated to practicing good hygiene, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing when to seek care, every small step counts.
Dr. Kuriakose reminds us that flu prevention and early action are the most effective ways to avoid serious illness. By following your flu season survival plan of vaccinating, resting, hydrating, and monitoring your health, you're not only supporting your recovery but also helping to prevent the spread of this powerful virus.
If you ever feel unsure about your symptoms or need care, Essen Health Care is here for you. With multiple urgent care locations across the Bronx that accept walk-ins, our team is ready to provide guidance and treatment when you need it most.
Stay informed, take proactive steps, and make this flu season easier on yourself and those around you. Your health is essential!
Book a visit to get your flu shot today:
About Dr. Binu Kuriakose, MD
Dr. Binu Kuriakose is the Medical Director of Urgent Care at Essen Health Care, where he leads a team dedicated to providing timely, high-quality care for patients across the Bronx. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, he earned his medical degree from St. George's University and completed his residency at Flushing Hospital Medical Center. Known for his approachable demeanor and commitment to community health, Dr. Kuriakose emphasizes the importance of proactive care and accessible medical guidance for patients of all ages.
