Diseases & Conditions
Bracing for flu season: Steps to protect yourself right now
Get your flu shot as soon as possible, wash your hands often, and watch for signs of this dangerous virus.
 Image: © SolStock/Getty Images
Flu season will be under way soon, and doctors are hopeful this year's influenza outbreak will be as mild as the last one. The 2020-2021 flu season ranked as one of the lower in severity ever.Â
Why was the last flu season so mild? The main reason was the COVID-19 pandemic. The great majority of people followed the CDC guidelines regarding hand washing, masking, and social distancing. Also more people than usual got the flu vaccine because of the fear of a double infection with both COVID and influenza.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.