Flu season is coming. Are you ready?

September 29, 2025 / Family Medicine / 4-minute read

What feels like a routine winter bug can actually be dangerous, especially for young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. The good news is that protecting yourself and your family doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps can make a big difference.

Why flu shots matter

The single most effective way to prevent the flu is by getting your annual flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccination for everyone age 6 months and older. Even if you still catch the flu, being vaccinated can reduce the severity of your illness and lower the risk of complications. And when more people are vaccinated, it creates a shield of protection for those who are most vulnerable.

Welia Health makes it easy. Flu vaccines are currently available in Mora, Hinckley, and Pine City. Call to schedule an appointment with a Welia Helath nurse for your shot, or simply ask for one at your next appointment.

” Every year, we see how the flu can take a toll on families, especially kids, older adults, and people managing chronic health conditions. Getting your flu shot is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself—and to help keep our whole community healthier. “

Matthew Allen, MD
Welia Health Family Medicine

Prevention beyond the vaccine

Getting your flu shot is key, but it’s not the only way to protect yourself. Other healthy habits make a big difference:

Wash your hands often and well. Soap and water are best.

Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.

Stay home when you’re sick. Rest. It’s good for you and helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

Clean and disinfect. Pay attention to doorknobs, phones, and other high-touch surfaces.

Understanding the flu

Flu is not the same as a cold. Symptoms often come on suddenly and may include the following:

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)

People are most contagious in the first 3–4 days after illness begins, but you may spread the flu even before symptoms appear.

Complications from the flu can be severe. They can include pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. That’s why prevention is so important.

When to seek care

Most people recover from the flu at home; however, some symptoms require medical attention. Call your provider if you or a loved one experiences:

A fever higher than 102°F
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Severe dehydration (such as dizziness, confusion, or minimal urine output)
Worsening of a chronic health condition

Antiviral medications may help shorten the duration or reduce the severity of illness if started promptly, especially for those at high risk.

Take action today

This fall, make your health—and your family’s health—a priority. Schedule your flu shot at Welia Health and follow these everyday prevention steps. Together, we can help keep our community healthier all season long.

Call any of Welia Health’s clinics to schedule a nurse-only appointment for your flu shot.