Flu season, which according to the CDC lasts from October to February, is fast approaching. According to a recent article by the Deming Headlight, in New Mexico, flu season is already here.

The New Mexico Board of Health confirmed lab tests revealing that three people in Quay county were diagnosed with the flu around September 21st.

The state, like many others, urges the population to get their flu vaccinations as early as possible. After all, the shot can take up to two weeks to go into effect, according to the CDC.

Early vaccination can also help prevent this year’s outbreak from being as large in scale as last year’s. According to the Dayton Daily News, 2017’s flu season hit hard, and in Ohio alone there were well over 17,000 flu-related hospitalizations.

Though a common virus, the flu is still serious. The illness can lead to several days of achiness and fever. In some cases, the flu requires emergency hospitalization, and in extreme cases can even lead death. For young children and the elderly, flu-related risks are especially high.

Yearly vaccination is the best flu prevention method. For a quick flu shot, consider heading to a local urgent care clinic. According to the Urgent Care Association of America, 92% of wait lines are less than thirty minutes .

While vaccination is essential to preventing the spread of the flu to those most vulnerable, and to those who can’t have vaccines, there are other steps individuals can take to stay healthy this coming flu season. Bustle and Healthline recommend individuals keep their immune system up and running by following these five steps :

1. Good Handwashing Habits
   Handwashing is absolutely essential to limiting the spread of the flu virus. Hand washing also helps prevent sharing other nasty illnesses, from the common cold to salmonella.
2. Get Enough Sleep
   Sleeping for at least seven and a half hours every night can help adults boost their immunity.
3. Exercise Often
   Regular physical activity, according to Bustle, helps spread immunity cells throughout the body and keeps the cardiovascular system functioning optimally for illness prevention.
4. Keep Surfaces Clean and Disinfected
   Sterilizing surfaces that humans touch a lot, like phones, doorknobs, sinks, and counters can help prevent the spread of sickness, especially in schools and workplaces.
5. Get Enough Nutrients
   Finally, eating good food promotes overall health, but it also makes sure the body is stocked up with disease-fighting antioxidants and vitamins, like Vitamin C.

As the three confirmed cases in New Mexico demonstrate, flu season is nigh. By using smart preventive methods and caring for their overall health, everyday citizens can help limit the impact of year’s flu outbreak.