Whether or not you believe in flu shots, flu shot clinics are busy in Eastern Iowa, as it's time to prepare for what experts are saying is going to be a rough flu season.

It's still early with reports being low, but the Iowa Department of Public Health anticipates that to ramp up as winter approaches. It's always an unpredictable situation when thinking about how many people will get sick from the flu, and the health department says every year is different.

They, of course, recommend getting that flu shot, but besides that, there are other precautions to take:

  • Wash your hands. A lot.
  • Stay away from people when they are sick with the flu
  • Keep surfaces like tabletops, countertops, or doorknobs clean with hot water and soap or disinfecting cleaners.
  • Do not touch your nose, eyes or ears if possible
  • Cover your mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough

Symptoms include but are not limited to:

  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Feeling tired
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Fever or feeling feverish
  • Having chills

The best course of action is still to get a flu shot. In any case, be safe and well as flu season approaches.

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