(NewsUSA) - Several seasonal celebrations are nearly upon us, but an unwelcome time of year also awaits—flu season.

The “flu,” short for influenza, is a viral respiratory illness that often spreads in the fall and winter months, according to physician Matthew Heller, D.O., an associate professor of family medicine at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, February is historically the peak month for flu activity.

To reduce the chances of contracting the flu, Heller recommends getting a flu shot, adding that anyone over the age of 6 months old should be vaccinated annually. 

“Always talk to your physician about potential exceptions and find out whether the flu vaccine is appropriate for you,” Heller counseled.

The vaccine works by developing antibodies that provide protection against the flu-causing virus, Heller noted. A vaccinated person who caught the flu would experience less severe symptoms and potential complications. Even during flu seasons when the vaccine is less effective due to virus mutations, vaccination protects against hospitalizations and deaths and reduces the risk for influenza-associated outpatient healthcare visits across all age groups. Importantly, he emphasized that the way flu vaccines are developed makes them unable to cause the illness itself.

It is crucial to be proactive about getting vaccinated, as it takes about two weeks for the body to subsequently build full protection against the virus, Heller stated.

Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache, and fatigue, Heller said. People don’t typically become symptomatic until a few days after exposure to the flu virus and will become contagious during this time. Symptoms may last for about a week.

Heller explained that while most who suspect they have the flu can recover at home with plenty of rest and fluids, those in high-risk groups for developing complications—including adults 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions—should contact a physician. 

Besides getting an annual vaccination, Heller noted other ways people can protect themselves from the flu virus. Frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer, sanitizing high-traffic surfaces, avoiding face touching and large crowds, and sneezing into a tissue or elbow are also preventative steps.

As a physician, Heller emphasized the importance of remaining educated about the impact of the current flu season: “The flu spreads easily from person to person,” he said. “Remember that getting the flu vaccine will not only protect you but will also protect all those around you. By setting the example, others will follow.”

Heller is one of many New York Tech faculty lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.