Influenza, often called the flu, is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by a virus. Most people with the flu get better on their own. But influenza can cause serious complications for some groups of people. Getting an influenza vaccine is the best way to prevent the misery of the flu and its complications.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months or older, especially people at higher risk than average for complications. This includes young children, babies, pregnant people, adults over age 65 and people with certain medical conditions. This year’s seasonal flu vaccines each provide protection against four of the influenza viruses expected to be most common during this flu season.
Get your no-cost annual flu shot at any in-network provider or pharmacy.
When is the flu vaccine available?
Flu shots are typically offered each year by August and are available now at your doctor’s office or any in-network pharmacy. Keep in mind it takes up to two weeks to build immunity after a flu shot and it is usually best to get the flu vaccine in September and October. But you can still protect yourself against late flu outbreaks if you get the vaccine up to February or later.
Why do I need to get vaccinated every year?
Because flu viruses change so quickly, last year’s vaccine may not protect you from this year’s viruses. New flu vaccines are released every year to keep up with rapidly changing flu viruses. When you get vaccinated, your immune system makes antibodies to protect you from the viruses included in the vaccine. But antibody levels may decline over time — another reason to get a flu shot every year.
Can the vaccine give me the flu or other respiratory diseases?
No, the flu vaccine can’t give you the flu. The flu vaccine also doesn’t increase your risk of COVID-19. But some people may have muscle aches and a fever for a day or two after receiving a flu vaccine. This may be a side effect of your body’s production of protective antibodies.
Can I lower my risk of the flu without getting a flu shot?
The flu vaccine is your best defense against the flu. But there are more steps you can take to help protect yourself from the flu and other viruses, including COVID-19. Follow these standard precautions:
- Wash your hands. Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer on your hands if soap and water aren’t available.
- Keep your hands away from your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Avoid crowds. The flu spreads easily where people are gathered, for example in school or on public transportation. Avoid crowds when the flu or COVID-19 is spreading in your area.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze, and then wash your hands.
- Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as counters, light switches and doorknobs. This can help to prevent the spread of infection from touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your face.
- Practice good health habits. Get regular exercise, get enough sleep, drink plenty of fluids, eat a healthy diet and manage stress.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick if you can. If you become sick with the flu, you also can help prevent the spread of the flu by staying home and away from others. Continue staying home until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours.
Getting your flu vaccine can lower your risk of the flu and its complications. Following these precautions can help protect you from the flu or other respiratory illnesses.
Source: mayoclinic.org