Should I Still Get the Flu Shot This Year?

December 2, 2022

Focusing on our health and wellness has been such an important part of all of our lives over the past couple of years. Now that we are entering into the cold and flu season again, it becomes a major priority for us all again.

Thankfully, we have reliable tools like the flu shot to help protect us from serious illness! And it’s not too late to get your family vaccinated against the flu. Stop by our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland clinic today.

What Is the Science Behind the Flu Shot?

Each year, the vaccine is tailored to fight the most common strains of the flu. Since viruses change and mutate all the time, the flu shot has to as well! It contains bits of deactivated virus that stimulates an immune response in your body.

It is important to remember that the flu vaccine cannot give you influenza. Since the vaccine only contains the deactivated version of the virus, it is just not possible. If you feel run down for a few days after the shot, it is simply your body working to form those important antibodies. This means the shot is working for you!

Everyone Can Benefit From the Flu Shot

It reduces your risk of death due to the flu.
It can reduce the number of days you are sick if you do get the flu.
The shot protects you from serious complications.
It can help with herd immunity.

Can You Develop Complications From the Flu?

Everyone has some level of risk for developing flu complications or suffering from dangerous symptoms. While more vulnerable populations may have a higher risk, anyone could get really sick, even if the flu has never made you seriously sick before.

Getting your flu shot helps lower that risk and can protect you from developing complications like pneumonia, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) or sepsis. It also can help protect those more vulnerable loved ones in your life. Do your part and get vaccinated today!