Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Have you received your seasonal vaccine for influenza (“the flu”) yet? Though the CDC recommends that nearly everyone get one yearly, as many as half of Americans don’t receive an annual flu vaccine. Here’s some quick facts about the seasonal flu vaccine:

·     The vaccine protects against the most common strains of the flu expected for that season. This year, the vaccine protects against four different strains of the flu. 

·     Flu viruses mutate quickly, which is why the vaccine is updated annually.

·     It’s available in different forms, including a nasal spray instead of a shot.

·     There are specific versions recommended if you’re over 65 years old (ask your pharmacy!).

·     Vaccination is recommended for children over six months old.

·     The vaccine is not 100% effective at preventing the contraction of the flu, but it is still effective at reducing symptoms and the risk of serious illness. For healthy adults between 18 and 64, the seasonal flu vaccine has about 50% effectiveness in preventing the contraction of influenza. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu.

·     It takes up to two weeks to build immunity from the flu vaccine, so it’s better to get it early! The vaccine typically becomes available in September or October of each year.

The flu vaccine is safe, but some people have side effects after receiving it, such as muscle aches or a low fever the next day. Though rare, flu vaccines can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about side effects or reactions