Every fall, health experts remind us that flu season is approaching. For many, it’s a time of sniffles, fatigue, missed workdays—and concern over how to get care without disrupting life. The good news? This year, you have a powerful tool in your benefits kit: MPOWERHealth Virtual Care.

Here’s what to expect, how to protect yourself, and how Virtual Care fits into your flu season plan.

When Does Flu Season Strike?

• Flu activity in the U.S. generally begins to rise in October.

• The peak months are usually December through February—the heart of winter.

• In some years, flu circulation lingers into March, April, or even May.

• The timing and severity can vary by region and year.

So,  we’re just entering flu season—and now is the ideal time to get ahead of it.

Why You Should Care (Especially This Year)

• High transmissibility: The flu spreads quickly in indoor settings, especially in offices, schools, and during holiday gatherings.

• Compounding risks: Similar respiratory viruses (e.g., COVID-19, RSV) can make diagnosis trickier and strain healthcare resources.

• Lost productivity: Even “mild” flu can lead to missed workdays, slower recovery, and lingering fatigue.

• At-risk individuals: Those with asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, older adults, and young children face more serious complications.

 MPOWERHealth Virtual Care: Your Flu Ally

With MPOWERHealth Virtual Care, you have a resource tailored for flu season—fast and convenient.

Here’s how it helps:

1. Quick access
   If you start experiencing symptoms—such as fever, cough, body aches, or fatigue—please request a virtual visit. While we’re not 24/7, we’ll schedule you within 24 hours of your request (often same day).

2. Safe diagnosis & treatment
   A clinician assesses your symptoms, guides next steps (e.g., antiviral medications, rest, hydration), and writes prescriptions if needed (if your plan allows).

3. Avoiding exposure
   You get care from home, reducing the risk of spreading flu to colleagues or family members.

4. Care navigation support
   If additional or in-person follow-up is needed, your Care Navigator can help you schedule it and understand your benefits.

5. Peace of mind
   No surprise charges. No long waits. Just access to care when you need it most.

What to Ask During Your Virtual Visit

Here are some helpful prompts:

• “Is an antiviral medicine appropriate for me?”

• “Are there symptoms or red flags I should monitor?”

• “How long before I’m no longer contagious?”

Flu Season Etiquette & Work Tips

• Practice good respiratory etiquette (cover coughs and avoid touching your face).

• Stay home at the first sign of illness; don’t “power through” and risk infecting others.

• Keep a “flu kit” at home, including a thermometer, tissues, hand sanitizer, fluids, and a comfortable rest setup.

• Use Virtual Care for early intervention—don’t wait until symptoms worsen.

• Encourage family members—especially kids and older adults—to do the same.

When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

Virtual care is a great tool—but it’s not for every situation. Seek immediate in-person or emergency care if you experience:

• Trouble breathing / shortness of breath

• Chest pain or pressure

• Confusion, sudden dizziness, or changes in alertness

• Persistent high fever unresponsive to medication

• Bluish lips or face

If any of these occur, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Your Flu Season Plan

1. Activate your MPOWERHealth Virtual Care: Schedule an Appointment

2. Get your flu shot (ideally by November).

3. Monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any discomfort or illness.

4. Use Virtual Care to get a diagnosis, guidance, and prescriptions.

5. Lean on Care Navigators if you need help scheduling follow-up or understanding benefits.

6. Stay home and rest, limiting spread and giving your body a chance to heal.