While the influenza virus changes from year to year, one trend holds steady; It always becomes more prevalent during winter months. According to Carolina Doctors Med Care, understanding this pattern can help communities better prepare for outbreaks and take flu prevention more seriously. Having treated this bug first hand, this health care clinic in Sanford, NC, offers more insight on the topic.

How the Flu Virus Spreads in Winter

Technically, you can catch the flu any time of year. But, there’s something unique about cold weather conditions that help the virus thrive. It’s suggested that winter causes people to spend more time indoors in environments where germs can spread fast. Lack of sunlight, and in turn, vitamin D, may also impair immunity, leaving people more susceptible to the virus. But, the biggest factor is the lack of humidity of the season. When the air is colder and drier, the influenza virus has an easier time surviving — and traveling — to communities across the country.

How to Fight the Flu Season

Patients should receive an annual flu vaccine every year through their health care provider. This protection is especially important for individuals with compromised immune systems — such as the elderly or people with diabetes — as they are more likely to develop complications if infected. Even if vaccinated people catch the virus, the results of the illness will be less severe than if they weren’t immunized.

While the vaccine is the best line of defense, people should still practice good hygiene to keep germs at bay. These practices include regular hand-washing, sneezing or coughing away from others, and avoid sharing food and beverages.

Whether you need to get your flu shot or are need help fighting off the virus, Carolina Doctors Med Care can provide you with the health care resources you need to protect your well-being. Focused on promoting strong community health care in Sanford, NC, this team can address more than influenza — they also offer responsive urgent care, DOT physicals, allergy care, and back pain management. To learn how this advanced medical facility can address your family’s health concerns, visit their website. You can also call (919) 774-3680 to schedule an appointment.