Influenza is a common respiratory infection that can lead to serious complications; particularly in children and the elderly. The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu shot. AFC Urgent Care recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu shot to reduce the chance of contracting and spreading the flu virus.
Annual flu shots are important since the flu virus is extremely adaptable, making last year’s flu vaccine less helpful this year. Two weeks after you receive the vaccine, your body will have created the essential antibodies necessary to combat the flu virus. Over time, however, these antibody levels will begin to decrease, which is another reason why annual flu shots are recommended.
Individuals most susceptible to the flu virus include:
- Young children;
- Pregnant women; and
- People 65 years and older.
Chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, and kidney/liver disease also increase the risk of contracting the flu virus. If you fall into one of these categories it is recommend that you receive the flu shot as well.
After having received a flu shot, you may notice mild symptoms including a low-grade fever or muscle aches. These short-lived symptoms are usually caused by your body’s natural reaction to the flu vaccine.
According to the CDC, receiving a flu shot makes you 60-70% less likely to contract the virus. If you are interested in a flu shot for yourself or a loved one, visit AFC Urgent Care today!
