Preparing for Flu Season: What You Should Know
Aug 13, 2025
With the heat and humidity of summer still upon us, flu season may seem far off. But even though the flu tends to peak between October and March, infections can happen anytime — so planning now can help you and your loved ones stay protected.
As a leading provider of preventive care for patients in and around Bridgewater, Massachusetts, our team at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, helps people of all ages stay healthy during flu season and all year round.
In recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month, John Terzian, MD, FACC, shares a brief overview of the flu, along with simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection.
Influenza (flu) infections affect millions of Americans every year. While many people recover within a couple of weeks, many others develop complications that lead to hospitalizations, long-term disability, or death. In fact, every year, tens of thousands of Americans die from the flu and its complications, including hundreds of Massachusetts residents.
Both colds and flu stem from viruses. While the symptoms may sound similar, the effects of flu tend to be far more severe, including:
Even with treatment, flu infections can lead to complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in young children, older adults, and people with weakened or compromised immune systems or underlying health problems like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or heart disease.
We can’t completely prevent the flu, but these five steps can dramatically reduce your risk of infection.
The best thing anyone can do is to get an annual flu shot. In fact, the CDC recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months of age and older.
Why an annual shot? The flu virus evolves over time, so the flu vaccine is updated to improve its effectiveness against the most common strains for that season.
Try to schedule your vaccine before October, when flu season is in full swing. And remember: Flu vaccines won’t make you sick.
Flu spreads through the air in tiny droplets emitted when you cough, sneeze, or even speak. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue —or the crook of your elbow — not your hands.
You can also pick up the flu virus from contaminated surfaces where air droplets have fallen. Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer to prevent transmitting those germs to your nose or mouth. Also, avoid touching your face unless you’ve just washed your hands.
The flu is highly contagious. If you have symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. Use the time to rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Optimizing your health and wellness can reduce your risk of flu and other illnesses. Boost your natural immunity by:
These habits not only help prevent flu but also improve your overall wellness.
No “cure” exists for flu, but antiviral medications can reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten their duration. These medications work best when given shortly after your symptoms first appear, so schedule your visit as early as possible.
Don’t let flu season catch you off guard. To schedule your flu vaccine, request an appointment online or over the phone with our team at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC.