Flu season is coming—are you ready? Taking a few simple steps now can help reduce your risk of getting sick and protect those around you. Whether you're getting kids ready for school, caring for older adults, or managing a chronic condition, preparing for flu season early can make a big difference.
Learn more about the flu and how it spreads.
Here are five smart steps to help you stay ahead of the flu.
1. Schedule your flu shot early
One of the best ways to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated early—before the virus starts spreading widely in your community. Health experts recommend getting your shot in late August or September so your body has time to build protection before peak season.
“The flu shot doesn’t work instantly—it takes about two weeks to be fully effective. That’s why getting it early is a smart move,” said Samia Kadri, a nurse practitioner with Banner Urgent Care.
Not sure where to go? You can get your flu vaccine at your provider’s office, local pharmacy or urgent care center.
Find out when and how to get your flu shot.
2. Stock your medicine cabinet
Don’t wait until you’re sick to realize you're out of essentials. Keeping your home flu-ready can help you recover faster and avoid last-minute trips to the store. Make sure you have:
- Fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- A working thermometer
- Electrolyte drinks
- Tissues and hand sanitizer
- Extra masks if someone becomes ill
“It’s much easier to stay home and recover when you’re not scrambling for supplies. A stocked medicine cabinet helps you rest, not stress,” said Kadri.
3. Review your sick-day plans
Illness can disrupt work, school, or caregiving routines. Planning ahead can ease stress if someone in your household comes down with the flu. Ask yourself:
- Do you know your child’s school or daycare illness policy?
- Can you work remotely if needed?
- Do you have backup care options for dependents?
- Who can help if you're the one who gets sick?
Having a plan in place makes it easier to stay home and recover—without scrambling.
4. Reinforce flu prevention habits at home
Good hygiene habits are a powerful way to stop germs from spreading. As flu, COVID and other respiratory viruses circulate this fall, make sure everyone in your household is following simple flu prevention steps:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose and eyes
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow
- Stay home if you’re feeling sick
“The basics—like handwashing and staying home when sick—can go a long way in preventing the spread of illness,” said Kadri.
5. Help protect high-risk loved ones from the flu
Flu complications can be serious for certain people, including infants, older adults and those with conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Even if you’re healthy, your actions can help protect them.
Steps you can take include:
- Getting vaccinated to reduce the chance you’ll spread the virus
- Limiting contact if you feel unwell
- Wiping down high-touch surfaces regularly
- Encouraging others in your household to get vaccinated
“Flu protection is a team effort. When healthy people take steps to prevent illness, it helps protect those who are more vulnerable,” Kadri said.
See who is at higher risk of flu complications.
Final thoughts
Getting ready for flu season doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and a proactive mindset, you can help your household stay healthy, reduce your chances of getting the flu, and make things a bit easier if illness does strike.
Ready to get your flu shot? Find a Banner Urgent Care near you.
