Rural Health Matters: Staying Ahead of Cold and Flu Season

As flu season closes in, Dr. Gold outlines the steps to take when you get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — As colder weather sets in, cold and flu cases are expected to rise across the country. On this week’s Rural Health Matters segment on Market Day Report, we turned to the experts at the University of Nebraska to learn how to prepare for the season and protect ourselves and our families.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined RFD-TV News to share what to expect in the months ahead and the best ways to prevent illness. He noted that while cold and flu season follows a familiar pattern each year, early preparation is key to minimizing the spread and reducing the severity of infections.

In his interview, Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of prevention, from simple steps such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to staying up to date on vaccinations. He also addressed the flu shot specifically, urging those who are eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help protect themselves and vulnerable members of their communities.

Dr. Gold discussed the role of COVID boosters this season, advising that individuals should consult their healthcare providers to determine whether they should receive an updated vaccine in addition to their annual flu shot.

Finally, Dr. Gold outlined the steps to take if you do get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold reminded viewers that proactive measures can significantly reduce both the spread and impact of seasonal illnesses. He encouraged everyone to prepare early and take steps to protect their health this fall and winter.

Related Stories
UT Institute of Agriculture reporter Charles Denney visited a class at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, where students in the School of Natural Resources traded traditional classrooms for hands-on outdoor learning.
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney and other experts break down ongoing energy market volatility, its impact on producer decision-making, and key indicators farmers should monitor moving forward.
On Tuesday’s Cow Guy Close, host Scott Shellady spoke with USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden about the decision, what he saw during a recent tour of the property, and why the department believes closure is the best path forward.
National Corn Growers First VP Matt Frostic joins us to discuss their 62nd annual yield contest, the new short-season corn pilot class, and what farmers can expect as the season gets underway.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

DOJ and USDA investigate beef industry concentration, with Big Four packers under scrutiny and a major settlement announcement expected later this week.
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor joins us to discuss the uncertain path for year-round E15 sales and the next steps as the issue heads toward a standalone House vote after it was stripped from the Farm Bill.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.
Seasonal pricing strength is lining up with crop stress, giving wheat producers another weather-driven marketing window. Shaun Haney joins us to discuss concerns from ag bankers on farm profitability.
Dr. Ernie Goss joined us to break down the latest Rural Main Street Index, discuss pressures on farm finances and equipment sales, and share expectations for the ag economy ahead.
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.
More Shows
Expert gearheads Kevin Byrd and Willie B have a wealth of technical knowledge and a passion to share it each week on Two Guys Garage.
Celebrate FFA Week 2025 with RFD-TV! Join us for special coverage honoring the achievements, leadership, and impact of Future Farmers of America.
FFA
RFD-TV News is proud to provide viewers across Rural America with gavel-to-gavel coverage of the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana on Oct. 22–26, 2024.
Music & Entertainment Shows
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Music & Entertainment Shows
Ray’s Roadhouse is a weekly program featuring the music of Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel. Ray and his band Asleep at the Wheel has had a more than 50 year career in the music industry and over the years have earned nine Grammy Awards. The program also will feature guest performers such as Pat Green, Stoney LaRue and Kelly Willis.
Discover the latest in farm machinery with RFD-TV’s coverage of the National Farm Machinery Show. Explore innovative equipment and tools for modern agriculture.
Celebrate FFA Week 2024 with RFD-TV! Join us for special coverage honoring the achievements, leadership, and impact of Future Farmers of America.