Getting a flu shot every year has been essential since its discovery and is an additional layer of protection during the pandemic. The jab may not prevent the virus, but it can help prevent flu-related illnesses, which COVID-19 can make us more susceptible to.

Children as early as six months of age and older should get the flu vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends annual flu vaccination through any licensed influenza vaccine appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status.

1. Saving Lives

Even the flu can sometimes cause serious complications that may require hospitalization. Dehydration, worsening of chronic illnesses, bacterial pneumonia, and ear infections are only a few of the issues someone catching the disease can experience. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), getting a flu shot, especially during the pandemic, will allow the health care system to conserve scarce medical resources for people with Covid-19, saving more people.

2. Reduced Sick Days

Catching Influenza not only requires you to rest at home but causes a lot of downtimes. Since it’s a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, not getting the proper medication may lead to flu complications. 

It can also be an issue for employees. The sickness can affect your productivity at work, hurting your capacity to earn income. Did you know that the flu is the reason for 111 million lost workdays and $7 billion lost in productivity and annual sick days?

3. Varied Strains

The influenza virus evolves quickly, and health organizations like the CDC do their best to predict which strain is likely to be prevalent and the type of vaccine that needs to be distributed. 

As soon as the vaccine comes into contact with our immune system, it activates and creates antibodies that fight off the virus. Therefore, as soon as the vaccinated person comes into contact with the actual flu strain, the body is protected and ready to fight it without getting sick.

4. Nothing to Fear

The side effects from the vaccine, such as headache, stuffy nose, or sore throat, are all minor. Other than those, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Many people don’t even experience any side effects, and those who do often report them as minor. 

5. Herd Immunity

Herd immunity is the concept that refers to the inability of disease to transmit through a population because of immunizations. The more people are immune, the more difficult it is for a virus to spread. Since the flu spreads quickly, it is crucial to develop herd immunity to prevent further infections. Remember that you’re not only doing it for yourself but the people around you.

Conclusion

Getting vaccinated against flu is a great way to prevent yourself from acquiring the virus. The shot saves lives. Flu’s most common symptoms include fever, aching muscles, chills, sweats, headache, cough, and sore throat. Even if you do acquire the flu virus, the vaccine can make the sickness less severe. However, if you develop complications aside from the primary symptoms, don’t hesitate to take a trip to the emergency room.

Aspen Medical Center offers the best primary care in Santa Fe. If you’re feeling sick and suspect a flu infection, we are ready to take care of you. Contact us through our website or set an appointment by calling our hotline number at 505-466-5885