This Year's Flu Is Exceptionally Bad — Here's What to Watch Out For

Both Chopra and Camins emphasized the importance of getting the flu shot — and, no, it's not too late to get the shot.

"If you have not gotten your flu shot, you are still encouraged to do so — but note that it typically takes two weeks to take effect," Camins told POPSUGAR. "The current flu vaccine has three to four strains of influenza that it works against, so even if it is not very effective against the current circulating strain, it may be very effective against the three other strains."

Practicing good hygiene is more important than ever during flu season. "Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand antibacterial rub," Chopra advised. "Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use."

Ideally, we should avoid close contact with any person who has the flu — but that's not always easy if a family member or roommate is infected. "If it's a spouse, child, or roommate who you live with, do your best to use separate bathrooms and stay in separate rooms if possible, and be sure to disinfect surfaces often," Camins said. When it comes to the workplace, he suggested postponing face-to-face meetings in favor of teleconferences.

Related:

A Doctor Explains Who Should — and Shouldn't — Be Getting a Flu Shot