We’ve all heard the stories. “The flu shot can give you the flu.” “Getting the shot after September is pointless.” “I got a shot last year, I don’t need on this year.” “It’s just the flu, it’s not life-threatening.”
Fact is, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can result in hospitalization or even death. And yet that doesn’t seem to stop the spreading of misinformation about flu vaccines. At MBK Senior Living communities we’re committed to keeping residents, team members and their families happy and healthy. That’s why in addition to offering flu shots in all 32 of our communities this fall, we are sharing the facts about flu vaccinations.
WHY IS GETTING VACCINATED IMPORTANT?
If we could cure half of the cases of cancer with an annual vaccine – would anyone reject it? Then why doubt the flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu? While no one is fully immune from flu viruses some people (elderly, young children and people with compromised immune systems) are at higher risk for serious flu complications. In recent years it is estimated that between 71-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths occurred in people 65 years and older. By getting the vaccine and practicing good health habits (cover coughs, wash hands often, avoid people who are sick and avoid contact with people if you’re sick) you can protect yourself and help fight the spread of the flu virus in your home, work place and community.
WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO GET VACCINATED?
The adage, “the earlier the better” does apply when it comes to getting the flu shot. However, vaccination is beneficial as long as the flu virus is circulating. While the “flu season” typically peaks between December and March, it varies year to year. To get ahead of the flu season, most vaccination providers suggest getting vaccinated by the end of October. However, getting the flu shot later does not prevent protection for you and your loved ones. Bottom line – get vaccinated!
DO I NEED TO BE VACCINATED EVERY YEAR?
Yes. In addition to the fact that flu viruses can shift and change, a person’s immune protection from a flu vaccination declines over time. It’s recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual vaccination to protect against the flu. Long-term medical conditions (diabetes, asthma, and chronic heart disease) can put you at high risk for serious flu complications – even if managed well. That’s why, if you have a medical condition – or work or live with someone with a condition – it’s vital that you are vaccinated every year.
CAN I GET SICK FROM THE VACCINATION?
No! It is scientifically impossible to get the flu from the flu shot. While the CDC does site that some people can have mild reactions to the flu shot, it’s not the actual flu. Some noted side effects from receiving a flu shot are soreness where the shot was applied, low-grade fever, and headache. However, actual flu symptoms are more pronounced and include: fever over 100.4F, aching muscles, chills and sweats, headache, dry, persistent cough, fatigue and weakness, nasal congestion, sore throat, vomiting and diarrhea.
WHAT IF I STILL CONTRACT THE FLU?
The flu shot is not infallible and it usually takes two weeks from vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body to protect you against the flu virus. If you have flu symptoms – even if you received the flu shot – it’s important to call your doctor or nurse practitioner. Your healthcare provider can prescribe antiviral medicines to treat the flu, and lessen the chance that it evolve into something more serious that could result in hospitalization. In addition to seeing your healthcare provider and receiving proper medications, if you have the flu it’s important to get bed rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid contact with others until your symptoms have subsided. To learn more about the flu vaccine and other safeguards for your family this flu season, see your healthcare provider today.
