October
brings cooler temperatures, changing leaves, football season and plenty of
reasons to get outside in East Tennessee. It also marks the beginning of a
seasonal shift in our health needs. Fall allergies, respiratory infections,
early flu cases and preventive visits can be top of mind this time of year, so
we want to ensure that you're prepared and healthy to enjoy all that fall has
to offer in our region.
Fall
respiratory illnesses typically begin to increase this time of year. The American Academy of
Family Physicians
notes that infections from influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and
COVID-19 typically begin to rise in the fall before peaking during the winter
months.
That
makes October a good time to check in on your health, prepare for virus season
and know when it's time to call your primary care provider.
Is it allergies or something else?
Sneezing,
congestion and a runny nose can be signs of allergies, but similar symptoms can
overlap with conditions such as sinus infections and respiratory viruses.
Summit Medical Group recommends talking with a primary care provider when
allergy symptoms interfere with everyday life and over-the-counter options aren't
providing sufficient relief. Your primary care provider can help determine
whether you're dealing with allergies or another illness and whether additional
testing or specialty care should be considered.
Here comes virus season. Don't forget your vaccines.
One
of the most important things you can do this fall is make sure you're up to
date on recommended vaccinations.
Flu
activity begins increasing in October. The CDC recommends annual
influenza vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older without contraindications
(conditions that make the vaccine inadvisable). Flu vaccination can reduce your
risk of becoming sick with influenza or reduce the severity of the illness. The
CDC also recommends the 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine for adults 18 and older and
the RSV vaccine, which is a single lifetime dose, for specific high-risk groups
such as seniors aged 75+.
Summit Medical Group offers routine
immunizations for children, adolescents and adults, and testing if you do get
sick. Talk with your provider about the vaccines recommended for you and your
family based on age and individual health needs.
Make time for preventive care, too
Fall
is also an opportunity to check in on your overall health and make sure you're
keeping up with preventive care. It's worth addressing preventive care now
before the busy holiday season arrives.
Your
primary care provider is an important partner in managing your health
throughout the year, from preventive visits and screenings to managing ongoing
health conditions. And if a cough, fever, sore throat or other illness
interrupts your fall plans, Summit's primary care providers and Summit Express Clinics can help you
determine what comes next.
As
the seasons change, take a moment to check in with your health. Get your recommended
vaccines, stay current on preventive care and don't ignore symptoms that aren't
getting better.
Visit
Summit Medical Group to find a provider or location near you and schedule an
appointment.