Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

Each year when the news reports that flu cases are on the rise, many people cringe. Nobody wants to get the flu thanks to its unwanted symptoms like:

  • headache
  • body aches
  • fever
  • runny nose
  • sore throat
  • stomach issues and more

The symptoms may come on similarly to a cold, but they stick around much longer. The fatigue can last for as long as a few weeks when you have the flu. Luckily, there are some ways you can attempt to avoid getting the flu or, if you do get the flu, reduce the severity of your symptoms. One of these methods is getting the flu shot. Let’s take a closer look at some of the various flu shot guidelines.

What Is The Flu Shot?

The flu shot is a vaccination that will trigger an immune response in the body. The body will develop antibodies against the flu. If a person comes into contact with someone who has the flu, the body should, in essence, be able to fight it off. If the body does become ill, the symptoms are generally much less severe than in someone who did not get the shot at all. The flu shot is not made up of a live flu virus, so there is no chance of getting the flu from the shot. There are some symptoms you may experience just from having an immune response, like a headache or sore throat. But they are generally mild and will go away in a couple of days.

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Who Should Get The Flu Shot?

Some people choose not to get the flu shot for various reasons, but there are people in society that very much would benefit from getting vaccinated. This often includes elderly people who would not be able to effectively fight off the flu if they were to become ill. People with compromised immune systems also can use the added protection. Small children have under-developed immune systems and can benefit from the flu shot. Also, if you are someone who is around elderly patients or small children because of your job or your home life, you can protect those that are around you by getting the flu shot each year.

When Should I Get The Flu Shot?

The flu shot becomes available each year in the late summer to early fall.  It is recommended that you get the shot early enough in the year so local pharmacies and doctor’s offices don’t run out of the shot. Also, giving your body enough time to build up immunities from the flu is imperative towards staying healthy when flu season hits in your area.

Of course, make sure you always:

  • wash your hands,
  • get enough sleep each night
  • eat healthy

These practices help fight off the flu as well as other illnesses that may get passed around once the weather turns colder and germs start to be in full swing. If you have any questions regarding the flu shot guidelines, be sure to talk to your doctor. There are some people who should not receive the shot because of allergies or immune system issues. Always check with your doctor before getting any type of vaccine in order to prevent vaccination injury.

Further reading: How To Plan A Flu Shot Clinic For Your Employees