Fleeing the Flu: FAQ on Flu Vaccines
Fall has quickly fallen upon us, and while many of us are enjoying the rustling of leaves under our feet, tailgating (responsibly) for our favorite football team, and indulging in pumpkin-spiced everything, it’s not too soon to start preparing for flu season. Because, of course, winter is coming, and it’s time to start thinking about protecting yourself from flu. It’s recommended that most people get an influenza vaccination in order to significantly diminish the chances of suffering from a debilitating flu virus. Your conveniently located CareSpot offers same-day vaccines for flu as well as many other immunizations. Just call ahead or schedule online for a quick and easy flu shot.
Facts about the vaccine:
When to get it?
Flu vaccines often start becoming available in October. Late November through February marks prime flu season. It’s recommended that you get your shot at least two weeks before flu season hits its stride. No time like the present!
Who should receive the immunization?
The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older receive a vaccination every year to protect against the influenza virus. Influenza immunizations are also particularly important for people with health issues that could be exacerbated by the flu. Some examples include people with asthma, emphysema, heart disease, high blood pressure, and those with already weakened immune systems.
What are possible complications from the flu?
Complications from the flu can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and even death. According to the CDC, every year, there are more than 200,000 hospitalizations related to seasonal influenza, so it’s important to protect yourself.
Others at higher risk of having flu-related complications include people over 65, pregnant mothers, and residents of highly populated facilities (hospitals, nursing homes, college dorms, military barracks, etc.).
Who should not get a flu shot?
You should not get the vaccine if you are allergic to any component that’s in the vial. The most common flu shots contain egg protein, though there are now immunization options that are free of eggs for those over the age of 18. If you think you have an egg allergy, consult your health professional about getting the recombinant trivalent flu vaccine.
It’s also not a good idea to get your flu shot if you’re already sick. If you are sick, it’s recommended that you wait a week or so until your symptoms have subsided.
If you get the flu shot, are you totally impervious to the flu this year?
Not exactly impervious – but at least more protected. The flu vaccine is an educated guess on the most common type of flu viruses that will be prevalent in a given year. For example, many know that in 2014, the prevalent viral strain changed after the vaccine had been developed. That means that those flu shots were not as effective as usual, but they still provided additional protection in the form of less severe symptoms for many people.
Regardless of the year-to-year changes with the influenza virus and a vaccine’s effectiveness, flu shots are still the best way to defend oneself against flu and flu-like symptoms. If you do end up getting sick, the vaccination will most likely help keep your symptoms on the milder side.
Can I get the flu from the shot?
No. This is a common misconception. The shot does contain flu viruses, but these viruses have been deactivated and purified. However, you might experience side effects such as a low-grade fever, body aches, or soreness (near the site of the shot).
Same-day flu shots are available at CareSpot with extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Get vaccinated and also practice common-sense measures such as avoiding those who are sick, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and disinfecting surfaces at home and work. Here’s to a healthy fall and winter!