Every winter, the influenza (or flu) virus causes hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths. During the 2022-2023 flu season, CDC estimated that flu was associated with 31 million illnesses, 14 million medical visits, 360,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 deaths. While many people recover, this highly contagious infection can cause complications for anyone, especially for older people and those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or other lung diseases. Flu can also trigger other health conditions, like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus and ear infections, as well as worsen chronic conditions, like cardiovascular disease.
The CDC recommends that nearly everyone 6 months and older—even healthy people—get a flu vaccine every season*. The good news is that this safe, effective, and life-saving medicine is available every year. Because even if you recover from the flu without any complications, who wants to deal with coughing, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue, chills, and body aches in the middle of the holiday hustle and bustle, while taking care of kids, or just doing your job?
What to know about the most common kinds of flu
According to the CDC, all flu vaccines for the 2024-2025 season are designed to protect against three different influenza viruses: two influenza A viruses and an influenza B/Victoria virus. While the vaccine used to protect against a fourth strain, influenza B/Yamagata, social distancing and masking practiced at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic has almost eliminated it. (There is also an influenza C strain that also causes illness, but these viruses are milder and don’t tend to cause epidemics.)
Influenza A: These constantly-changing viruses are generally responsible for large flu epidemics. They can cause both epidemics (seasonal outbreaks) and pandemics (rapid and global spread of a new disease).
Influenza B: This type of flu may cause a less severe reaction than influenza A, but it can still be extremely harmful. Influenza type B viruses do not cause pandemics.
Flu prevention beyond vaccination
While there are differences between flu strains, all are spread by droplets made when people who have it cough, sneeze, or talk. It may also spread when they touch a surface or object and leave virus there for someone else to touch before touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
This means that, on top of getting your annual flu shot, flu prevention can and should be a part of your daily lifestyle. You should also wash your hands regularly (including before and after eating) and wear a mask in public spaces, especially during flu season.
How Sollis can support your health this flu season
If you’re looking for extra support this flu season, Sollis Health provides the prevention, treatment, and aftercare that keeps people of all ages—and their families—feeling healthier and out of the ER.
Complimentary flu shots: All Sollis members get complimentary annual flu vaccinations.
Rapid testing: Access to rapid tests for influenza A and B are included in Sollis membership. Unlike traditional urgent care, Sollis also offers SPOTFIRE® mini rapid tests with a 15-minute turnaround for an additional fee. Members can also access a full diagnostic panel that’s typically only available in hospital settings, also for an additional fee. Instead of needing to go back to urgent care or the ER multiple times for a diagnosis, Sollis members can find out what’s causing their symptoms right away.
Immediate treatment: If they do get sick, Sollis members can seek immediate help for symptoms like aches, fever, nausea, congestion, and cough with:
Hydration, IV, and oral pain relief and fever reduction either in center or from home
Respiratory nebulizer treatments for wheezing and difficulty breathing
Antiviral medications like Xofluza and Tamiflu for both prevention and treatment. Sollis tracks which pharmacies have them in stock so we can get them for members faster, especially if they’re at high risk
Concierge pediatrics: If you’re a member whose child gets the flu, Sollis can quickly find a nearby pharmacy with Tamiflu in liquid form while keeping your child comfortable.
The connection between flu and pneumonia
This year, the CDC has reported a spike in Mycoplasma pneumoniae, commonly called walking pneumonia. Cases of walking pneumonia in younger children are particularly worrying. Because flu can compound pneumonia symptoms, and because symptoms can be confused with other conditions, like COVID-19 and RSV, testing is of the utmost importance—especially for kids. Mycoplasma is usually easily treatable with antibiotics, once diagnosed.
Conclusion
It’s never too late to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu by getting vaccinated. As we make to-do lists for all the holiday parties and gatherings we’re looking forward to, getting your flu shot should be at the very top.
*There are rare exceptions. Talk to your doctor about whether the flu vaccine is right for you.
