Flu Information

A Simple Way to Keep the Flu Away

Updated for the 2022-2023 flu season
Your best defense against the seasonal flu this year is to get the flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months or older get vaccinated – including pregnant people – with few exceptions.

This year, the flu is one of a trio of viruses circulating throughout our community in what health officials are calling an unprecedented “tridemic.” Together, the flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are sickening people and straining our medical system, with some people even contracting all three diseases at once.

The Emergency Department and Urgent Care Clinics at Overlake Medical Center are already seeing unprecedented patient volumes relating to the flu and RSV, along with an anticipated resurgence of Covid-19 during the winter season.

The flu is also called seasonal influenza. It's caused by one of several strains of the flu virus (type A or B) that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. While the illness can mean a week or two of misery for some, for more vulnerable people, it can lead to hospitalization or death; getting vaccinated also protects those community members by helping stop the spread of the flu. Flu season can start as early as October. It peaks anywhere from late December to early April.

Both the flu and COVID-19 have safe, proven vaccines that can help keep you, your family and our community safe. Ask your primary care provider about getting vaccinated.