ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — As coronavirus restrictions are loosened, area health officials are setting their sights on flu season. They say there’s a possibility for more cases.
A lot of us have been playing it safe these past few years as we saw multiple variants of the coronavirus and a lot of uncertainty. Now with more relaxed restrictions, people might be getting a little closer. Doctors say it’s best to make sure you get both the flu shot and the covid vaccine, especially ahead of the holidays.
Doctor Anthony Baffoe-Bonnie with Infectious Disease Prevention at Carilion Clinic says less masking and social distancing has already caused higher numbers of the flu in other states.
He said, “And then of course when the weather gets cold people get inside, people commune inside and that’s when infections spread.”
He added that the most important thing to do is get the covid vaccine and the flu shot. “Whether you get it at the same time, one before the other, just get it,” said Dr. Baffoe-Bonnie.
In addition to vaccination there are some other steps you can take to help prevent sickness. John Gove with Complete Nutrition says taking daily vitamins are a good practice to have.
Gove said, “I typically tell people, zinc, vitamin c, vitamin d, magnesium, elderberry.”
Gove says vitamins and antioxidants can help with symptoms. He also says eating fruits and vegetables will add to strengthening your immune system.
“If you have a healthy diet and a healthy exercise regimen, that will ultimately build up your immune system as well,” said Gove.
Vaccinations, vitamins and supplements are all things experts say they can lessen symptoms if you are infected. Heath officials at Carilion Clinic say if its been more than two months since your last covid-19 booster then you should get another one.
Carilion health officials say if you’re already at risk for getting very sick, or spend time around someone who is, you need to make sure you’re staying up to date on your vaccinations.
