()COVID-19, the fall’s most significant influenza vaccine, is still in place. The flu season this year will be more difficult and complex than ever before. Flu vaccine manufacturers recently projectedThey will distribute as many as 193 million doses this winter, breaking the previous flu season record of 175 million.

“While questions remain about exactly what this year’s flu season will look like, one thing is very clear: Older adults are particularly vulnerable and more at risk for related complications that could lead to hospitalization,”LaNita Knoke, a Registered Nurse and Health Care Strategist at Home Instead Senior care, said: “Whether you are a member of the aging population or you care for someone who falls into that category, it is critical to take every necessary precaution this year to protect yourself from flu.”

Like COVID-19 influenza poses serious health risks for people 65 and older, particularly those who have pre-existing conditions like asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes. Older adults should take preventive steps and learn the key symptoms of flu.

Knoke advises seniors and their families to be prepared for flu season by following these suggestions:

1. Get the flu shot. This simple step can be a wonderful act of love for your community and yourself. Get the flu shot as early as possibleThis year, to reduce the burden on health care systems dealing with COVID-19. This vaccine can help you and others avoid a potentially deadly disease or its complications. It also can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if you get the flu. You can contact your local pharmacy, urgent care clinic, or health care provider to find out if the vaccine is being administered.

2. Get ready to strengthen your immune system. As we age, our immune defense system becomes less effective. There are simple ways to boost your immune system today to ensure you stay healthy in the future. Being active can help us avoid illnesses such as COVID-19 or influenza by getting out and doing yoga daily.

3. Get a good nights sleep. A lack of sleep can make it harder to fight off infections. Consider adding a humidifier indoors during flu season and winter months. You can decrease flu symptoms, speed up recovery, and prevent future illness by increasing the water vapor level in the air. Your overall health will improve if you give your body the time it needs to rest.

4. Msaintain a healthy diet. A healthy diet rich in nutrients is another way to protect your body from common illnesses. You can fuel your body with healthy foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants like tomatoes, broccoli, and strawberries. Talk to your doctor or a dietitian about creating a meal plan that works for you.

5. Learn the difference. Although both COVID-19 and influenza share the same symptoms (such a fever, body aches, fatigue, and cough), there are some key differences. Coronavirus symptoms appear between two and 14 days after exposure. Flu symptoms are sudden. COVID-19 is often diagnosed in people who experience a loss or change of taste or smell. Both conditions require immediate medical attention.

You can find more information about staying healthy during flu season at www.flu.gov www.preventseniorhospitalizations.com.