COLUMBIA, MD — While there isn't an official start or end to flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend people get vaccinated by the end of October.

The agency also has a special message for younger kids: "Children 6 months through 8 years of age who need 2 doses should receive their first dose as soon as possible after the vaccine becomes available to allow the second dose to be received by the end of October," according to the CDC's official page. Influenza, commonly called "the flu," is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization or even death.

Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. The CDC estimates that 48 million people were hit by the flu in the United States in 2017-2018. The disease accounted for a staggering 959,000 hospitalizations, and 79,400 deaths during that time frame.

To minimize your risk of contracting the flu, follow these three simple steps: Get a flu vaccine. It's the best way to fight the flu! Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands often. Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them. If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can be used to treat your illness. Patient First

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