Schedule Your Flu Vaccine Today St. Francis Medical Experts Say

Health experts are urging Americans to get their flu vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, this year to stay healthy and avoid complications from influenza.

“With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, it is even more important everyone aged six months and older get a flu shot this year. It is an easy way to help keep you and your family healthy and avoid additional complications which might arise from having both the flu and COVID-19,” said Dr. Nick Karabulut, internal medicine and infectious disease specialist at St. Francis Medical Center.

Since symptoms of COVID-19, flu and common cold are similar, it is important to recognize the symptoms and contact a medical professional.

COVID-19, influenza and common colds all have similar symptoms including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle pain or body aches
• Headache

If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor. Your doctor may recommend a virtual visit or advise you get tested for COVID-19 or the flu. Stay home and avoid contact with others if you have any of these symptoms. If you live with others, isolate yourself in a separate room if possible.

Remember these key steps to prevent flu, common cold and COVID-19:

• Wash your hands
• Maintain six feet physical distance
• Wear a mask
• Stay home if you are sick

St. Francis is committed to your health and well-being. Schedule your flu vaccine today at one of our convenient and safe St. Francis physician office locations:

• In Robbinsville: Dr. Arif Hussain, Internal Medicine, 609-944-4500
• In Hamilton: Dr. Selim Sheikh, Primary Care, 609-586-6244
• In Ewing: Dr. Nick Karabulut, Internal Medicine & Infectious Disease, 609-882-4500

For more information, visit https://www.stfrancismedical.org/find-a-service-or-specialty/flu-shots.