Flu season is almost upon us – and now is the time to get your flu shot. Read on to learn how getting the flu shot helps you take care of yourself, your family and your community.
Reduce your risk of getting the flu.
Even the healthiest people can get the flu, and the vaccine is the easiest way to prevent contracting the illness. In 2016-2017 alone, the flu shot prevented an estimated 5.3 million influenza illnesses. It is particularly important for those with a high-risk of experiencing complications or death from the flu to get vaccinated, including the elderly, young children, those with conditions such as asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease or a heart disease. Pregnant women should also be sure to get the vaccine to protect their babies from the flu both before and after birth.
If you do get the flu, the vaccine will lessen the severity of your illness.
You still have a chance of contracting the flu after getting the flu shot, but your symptoms will be milder and the duration of your flu will be shorter than if you didn’t get the vaccine. In fact, those who get the flu vaccine but still contract the flu are 59% less likely to be admitted to the ICU than those who weren’t vaccinated.
You protect your community.
Not everyone is able to get the flu shot, including children under six months or people with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine. As more people get their flu shot, less people will contract the flu, reducing the risk of an unvaccinated person coming into contact with the illness.
The flu poses a serious health threat to our communities, and at a Baptist Health, we’re committed to helping you weather the season healthily and happily. If you and your family still need to get your flu shots, request an appointment with the Baptist Health primary care physician nearest you.