Flu season tips from Dr. Michael Traub

Listen to the full interview on Radio Catskill’s website

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, flu season is already making its presence known. In a recent interview with Radio Catskill, Dr. Michael Traub, a primary care physician with Crystal Run Healthcare powered by Optum, shared essential insights on how to stay healthy this fall and winter.

Why the flu shot matters more than ever

“Last year in New York State was actually a record high number of cases — about 55,000 in a single week,” Dr. Traub noted. With such staggering numbers, he emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated early. The flu vaccine is updated annually to target the strains most likely to circulate, making it a critical tool for both personal and community protection.

Who’s most at risk?

Certain groups are especially vulnerable to flu complications:

• Adults 65 and older
• People with chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, diabetes, or heart disease
• Pregnant women
• Residents of nursing homes or group homes

Getting vaccinated helps protect not only yourself but also those around you who may be more susceptible.

Flu vs. COVID-19: Know the difference

Both viruses share symptoms like fever, cough, and congestion, but there are key differences:

• Flu: Vomiting or diarrhea is more common.
•  COVID-19: Loss of taste or smell may occur.

Dr. Traub recommends getting tested within 2-3 days of symptom onset to determine the cause and begin appropriate care.

Healthy habits to keep in mind

In addition to vaccination, Dr. Traub encourages these everyday practices:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Stay home if you’re feeling sick
• Consider masking in crowded indoor spaces
• Keep chronic conditions well-managed

Can you get flu, COVID, and RSV shots together?

Yes, all three vaccines can be administered during the same visit. However, if you’re concerned about soreness, you can space them out. “I usually recommend patients do it by Halloween,” Dr. Traub advised, to ensure protection before peak season hits.

Bottom line: Don’t wait — get your flu shot and encourage others to do the same. Stay healthy this flu season

Michael A. Traub MD