It’s coming: The flu. Every year, like clockwork, Canadians start an epic battle with germs. Coughs, runny noses, and sneezing – they’re inevitable.

Flu season leaves many Canadians crowding into germy waiting areas at their local walk-in clinic. Others are spending hours in the ER for minor issues like prescription renewals.

But there’s another way. If you get sick this season, Maple can help. Maple is a telehealth platform that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists from your phone, tablet, or computer.

Tips to fight the flu

1. Get a flu shot

Get your flu shot every year, as early as you can in the season. It takes at least two weeks to protect you from the time of injection, so the longer you go without it, the higher your risk of exposure.

2. Practice good hygiene

Soap and water are some of your best tools for warding off the influenza virus, so wash your hands frequently. As well, if you have to share space with potentially sick people, here’s looking at you daily transit riders, consider wearing a mask to protect your nose and mouth from virus-laden droplets. Few things are worse than having a stranger sneeze or cough on you.

3. Stop the spread of germs

Keep your germs to yourself. Cough into your elbow, wash your hands, and disinfect surfaces regularly, the flu virus can live on surfaces for up to two days. Most importantly, stay home if you’re sick.

4. Rest, hydrate, and get treated

If you do get sick, take care of yourself. Most cases of the flu can be treated at home with rest and fluids. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help you manage any fever or aches and pains.

Safeguard your health, and your sanity,  this fall by prioritizing accessible, convenient, and timely medical help that doesn’t come with the hassle of the clinic. See a doctor online this flu season and skip the wait.

These tips originally appeared in an article from Maple’s blog: How to talk to a doctor online, 24/7 for flu symptoms