Dr Karyl Thomas Rattay, Director of the Delaware Division of Public Health, discussed the coming Flu Season and the importance of flu shots. Our precautions against COVID 19 meant a less dangerous flu season last year, but it is returning as we are letting our guard down. Dr Rattay advises us to comntinue with our masks, hand sanitizing and safe distancing as both COVID and the flu are respiratory diseases spread by expelled droplets. Unlike COVID which can spread before symptoms appear – and not all display those – influenza is not as contagious and it makes a sudden appearance. She warns us, though, that COVID can now present with flu-like symptoms, a scratchy throat and nasal congestion. The best way to protect your family and co-workers, stay away when you start to feel sick. Both diseases can lead to serious complications, the best way to avoid them is to get vaccinated. Both Flu and COVID shots are free and plentiful. Anyone can be innoculated against the flu and there is exciting news about COVID vaccines available for children soon. Dr Rattay advises pregnant women to get vaccinated, symptoms are worse for them and COVID can lead to premature birth and birth complications.
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Learn mora about their efforts to fight the Flu at flu.delaware.gov and COVID at coronavirus.delaware.gov