How To Protect Yourself During Flu Season
Sept. 3, 2026
As temperatures drop, cases of the flu and common cold begin to rise. Each year, thousands of South Carolinians get sick with influenza, commonly called the flu.
While many people recover within a few days, the flu can lead to serious complications, hospitalization, and even death for some.
Because cold and flu symptoms can be similar, it is easy to overlook early signs of illness. Understanding the difference and taking preventive steps can help protect you and your family throughout flu season.
What is the flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. While it varies year to year, typically the annual flu season* in the United States begins in September or October and ends in March or April.
Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms tend to appear suddenly and can be more severe.
Symptoms of the seasonal flu
Flu symptoms* typically come on quickly and appear within 1 – 4 days after infection. People with the flu usually have some or all of these symptoms:
- Fever or feeling feverish
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Possible vomiting and diarrhea, though these are more common in children than adults
It’s important to note that not everyone with the flu will have a fever, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Who is at risk?
Certain people may be at more risk of complications from the flu. This includes young children, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.
People who are at high risk should contact their doctor if they develop flu symptoms.
How to prevent infection
The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu shot. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine* for everyone older than 6 months. Vaccines help lower your risk of illness, hospitalization, and severe outcomes.
Many of our members are eligible for no-cost flu shots. Coverage may be through your preventive care or pharmacy benefits. Getting a free flu shot can help prevent the cost of being sick later.
If you get sick, stay home to prevent the spread of illness. Practice good hygiene* by washing your hands frequently and coughing or sneezing into your elbow. Avoid close contact with sick people. Clean commonly touched surfaces.
What to do if you get sick
When you are sick, it is important to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Contact your doctor and monitor your symptoms. Stay home until symptoms improve and fever has resolved.
Protect your health this flu season
Flu prevention starts with simple steps. Getting an annual flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and seeking care when needed can reduce your risk of serious illness and help keep your community healthy.
Your flu season checklist:
- Get your annual flu shot.
- Use our Find Care tools to locate in-network providers.
- Use Blue CareOnDemand℠ Powered by MDLIVE® for telehealth when you are sick.
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly.
- Stay home if you are sick.
*This link leads to a third-party website. The CDC is an independent organization that offers health information you may find helpful.
MDLIVE is an independent company that provides telehealth services on behalf of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
