Easy steps to protect against spread of influenza

Flu season is here and Concentra is sharing some easy steps to protect against the spread of influenza, including seasonal flu vaccines available at all Concentra locations across the country. Concentra is a subsidiary of Humana Inc., one of the nation's leading health and well-being companies.      

Seasonal influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an extremely contagious respiratory infection and often includes symptoms such as high fever, cough and full body aches.  However, flu symptoms can intensify and become more severe than those of a common cold, causing medical complications that claim an average of 36,000 lives each year.  High-risk patients, including those with chronic illnesses, infants and toddlers, pregnant women, and seniors over 65, should make it a priority to be vaccinated.

"Concentra is dedicated to ensuring individuals receive a flu vaccination to protect themselves, and those that they interact with," said Senior Vice President of Medical Operations Bill Lewis, M.D.  "By offering flu vaccines at our urgent care facilities, combined with tips to reduce the incidences of seasonal flu, we can focus on limiting the financial and emotional impact the flu can place on individuals."

With many risks involved, Concentra encourages individuals to take these preventive measures to lower their incidences of getting the flu: 

• Monitor flu outbreaks in your community.  Check Google Flu Trends and the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for weekly updates.
• Get a flu vaccine.  The CDC recommends that everyone who is at least six months of age get a flu vaccine this season. 
• Take preventive actions daily.  Frequent hand-washing is an easy way to avoid getting sick and spreading germs.  Concentra recommends thorough hand washing before preparing food, after using the bathroom and after sneezing or coughing. 
• See a physician.  Concentra is the one destination for flu prevention, and treatment for flu symptoms.

Each year, one in five people become sick with influenza, but it can be avoided.  Doctors and experts agree that a flu vaccine is the best defense to reduce the likelihood of becoming ill with the influenza virus.  Concentra medical centers are easily accessible destinations for flu prevention.  Flu shots are currently available, with no appointment necessary, at all locations.