It’s That Time
Flu season has officially arrived, and it’s clearly not welcomed like its seasonal friends–football, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. A record-breaking 80,000 deaths were attributed to the flu last year; numbers like that haven’t been seen in the United States in 40 years. Thankfully there are steps you can take to protect you and your family.
Get a Flu Shot Now
The flu shot could reduce your chances of getting the flu by 40 to 60 percent. Last year, in the majority of flu-related deaths, the victims reportedly did not get the flu vaccination. Now is the time to get the vaccination– the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends it by the end of October, before the flu starts its high-visibility tour. There are many places you can get a flu shot, some even free. And most often insurance covers the cost. CVS offers a $5 coupon with a shot and if you happen to be a Publix shopper, you’ll score a $10 coupon. Neither of these two places require appointments, and there are many other available options.
Can I get the Flu from the Vaccination?
No, you cannot. It does take two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, so if you are exposed during that period, it’s possible you may be more likely to get the flu. This is why the CDC recommends getting your flu shot before the end of October. Children under the age of five and adults over the age of 65 are especially vulnerable to flu complications, so these age groups are particularly encouraged to get the vaccine.
Another benefit is that if you happen to get the flu, having the flu shot will likely lessen the severity. If you’ve had the flu, you know this is a big plus.
Everyone Benefits
We’ve all seen the flu make its way through families, offices, schools, etc. In my family, I am the Flu Shot Police. I took my youngest daughter to get hers; I got mine at the same time. I’ve resorted to family shaming in our family text for my oldest and my husband. I’m definitely concerned about my college daughter; dorms and classrooms seem to be petri dishes for everything, plus college students don’t always get enough sleep or eat as healthy as they should, which can weaken their immune system. My daughter hates shots, but I told her she absolutely had to get one. She recruited a friend who was hearing the same thing from her mom, and they are actually getting their vaccinations as I write! Hopefully they aren’t at Happy Hour laughing at how gullible their moms are…
The vaccination will help protect you and your loved ones from getting the flu. It’s not a guarantee, but a 40%-60% reduction in odds is pretty good incentive!
Cheers! –Kalisa
