One of the sad ravages of age is a weaker immune system. The many years we have experienced have left us more susceptible to catching many of the seasonal illnesses that make their rounds. From colds to the various respiratory and gastrointestinal bugs that make the circuit.

Not only do we become more susceptible to catching these seasonal illnesses but they also hit us harder, making it more difficult to recover from. Unfortunately, there are far too many seniors who are never able to recover and end up succumbing to these illnesses.

One of those seasonal diseases is the flu, which is why so many health professionals strongly urge and recommend that seniors get their annual flu shots.

Did you know that the most hospitalizations and deaths resulting from the flu are seniors and children? It’s also important for kids to get their annual flu shots as well.

Last year, it was a particularly hard flu season with many children, seniors and even those in between, being hospitalized and dying. This was partially due to the fact that last year’s flu vaccine was less effective against the key strains of the flu, but this year is different. The flu vaccine this year is reportedly more effective in preventing the flu than last year.

However, it seemed that this year’s flu season was getting off to a slower start than in years past, causing many to opt away from getting their flu shot. For whatever reason they opted out of getting their flu shot, those in the deep south are being given a special warning as reported:

Several counties across Northeast Florida are seeing a growing number of cases of influenza as flu season wears on, according to the Florida Department of Health.

The health department routinely sends out a weekly bulletin that shows the status of reported flu cases throughout the state. While most counties are still seeing mild flu activity, the latest advisory shows three in our area – Clay, Duval and Marion – have been upgraded to moderate activity.

Similar reports have been heard from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, South Carolina and Texas. Health agencies are reporting that the flu is especially hitting the deep south hard and heavy.

This means that seniors and children really need to seriously consider getting a flu shot, especially if they have any other health condition that further weakens their immune system.

Seniors and parents need to be aware of flu symptoms, which include:

• Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat

So, when should someone see their doctor is they suspect they have the flu? According to the Mayo Clinic:

Most people who get the flu can treat themselves at home and often don’t need to see a doctor.

If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away. Taking antiviral drugs may reduce the length of your illness and help prevent more-serious problems.

If you are one of us golden oldies and have a weakened immune system and if you live in the deep South, don’t take any chances if you think you may have the flu. See your doctor before it’s too late.