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It’s Not Too Late to Protect Yourself from the Flu Virus

Senior patient arm insulin medicine syringe injection vaccinatioEverything You Need to Know About the Annual Influenza Vaccine

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated every year. Influenza is a serious disease that for some can lead to serious health risks, including hospitalization, and in the most severe cases, death. By learning about the vaccine and its benefits, you can make an educated decision regarding annual immunization.

Why should I get vaccinated annually?
The body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time. In addition, each flu season is different, with seasonal strains affecting individuals differently. Since flu virus strains vary every season, each year the vaccine is developed to protect against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be the most prevalent that season. An annual vaccine offers optimal protection from seasonal virus changes year-after-year.

Who should receive the vaccine?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that everyone six months of age and older be immunized annually. Vaccination is highly recommended for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza, including children and seniors.

When is the best time to be vaccinated?
Flu season occurs from early October through late May. The earlier in the flu season you receive the vaccine the better, however even if you don’t get vaccinated in October, it is still in your benefit to get the vaccine at some point during the flu season. Even a January vaccination will limit your chances of a contracting a serious seasonal illness.

How quickly does the vaccine start to work?
Approximately two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop in the body that protect against the virus.

Are there vaccine options available?
The flu vaccine is available in two forms: a shot or a nasal spray. Traditional “trivalent” vaccines are designed to protect against three flu viruses. There are also vaccine versions manufactured and approved for children under 18 and seniors over 65. Your doctor will recommend the vaccine version that is appropriate for you, as there are factors that can determine a person’s suitability for vaccination, including their age, health factors, and allergies.

Talk to your doctor about receiving the flu vaccine. Even mid-way through flu season, the influenza vaccine will provide protection for you and your loved ones from the flu virus and its dangerous side effects.

Check out this article for more information about myths and facts about the flu vaccine and flu season.