Many people are familiar with the flu. The influenza virus that causes this respiratory illness can be devastating if not treated, but most often, it can cause severe breathing issues to the lungs, nose, and throat. In most cases, the flu will go away on its own, but for those with compromised immune systems, getting the flu shot is essential. So, should you get the flu shot this season? We highly recommend doing so, as it can help prevent future cases of getting the flu and help protect others from getting sick.
The Influenza Virus and You
Influenza is a disease that can present serious complications, and in worse cases, can lead to hospitalization and death. Millions of people often get the flu, and it causes fevers, coughs, sore throats, muscle aches, and headaches during the winter months. These infections can last up to two weeks, and while common, can pose a more severe issue to those with compromised immune systems such as the elderly, young children, and those with immune system disorders.
With this in mind, the only defense available against the ever-evolving flu virus strains is a flu shot. Flu shots contain a tiny amount of deactivated viruses and are designed to boost immunity and not make you sick. However, with this immunity, the flu shot will come with some side effects over the course of the next two weeks, including:
- Muscles Aches
- Low-Grade Fevers
- Soreness At Injection Site
- Nausea
- Headaches
Getting your flu shot is the most assured way to protect against the flu virus. Flu vaccinations have been shown to have benefits in reducing future flu infections. Because the flu virus evolves every day, it’s important that you get a flu shot before or during the flu season to prevent getting sick. When getting the flu shot, immunity towards that virus strain will last for about six months, but the effectiveness of the vaccine will depend on your age and any chronic health conditions you may have.
Should You Get A Flu Shot During Covid-19?
If you neglected your flu shot last year in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, then know it’s not too late. The CDC advises that getting the flu vaccination is just as vital as getting the Covid-19 vaccine not only because it protects you from getting the flu, but it also helps reduce the stain healthcare professionals have when responding to the Covid-19 pandemic.
To best ensure the safety of yourself and others, it’s essential to plan out vaccinations two weeks after receiving the Covid-19 vaccination. As the number of flu cases within the United States continues to decrease, flu activity will still be a prevalent issue. Even while Covid vaccinations are still being processed to people across the world, getting the flu vaccination can help minimize those cases and make the flu harder to spread across communities.
