There is Still Time to Protect Against the Flu
12/5/2022
The holidays are here, and while
that means more opportunity for spreading cheer, it also means more opportunity
for spreading flu and other respiratory viruses as people resume traveling and
gathering with family and friends.
National Influenza Vaccination Week
(Dec. 5-11) is an important reminder to those eligible to check one crucial
element off their list this holiday season: a flu vaccine.
The flu virus, along with other
respiratory viruses, are circulating at high levels nationwide.
It’s crucial people remain
proactive in protecting themselves and loved ones from getting sick by staying
up-to-date on vaccinations.
“Receiving the flu vaccination
every year is one of the best things a person can do to prevent the flu,” says
Tristan O’Driscoll, Aspirus Infectious Disease Pharmacist.
Peak flu season is typically in the fall
and winter, from December to March. However, this year hospitals from all over
the country have seen a rise in flu cases much earlier than normal.
While the flu is a widespread and
common virus, it can still lead to serious complications resulting in
hospitalization and sometimes even death.
When individuals receive their flu
vaccine, they’re not just protecting themselves from the flu, but also
protecting the people around them who may be more vulnerable.
Those most at risk and encouraged
to get the flu vaccines are people with certain chronic health conditions such
as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, along with pregnant women, and those over
the age of 65.
The flu vaccination is one that is
needed annually and everyone six months and older is eligible.
Flu viruses are constantly
changing, and multiple flu viruses can circulate at the same time during any
given flu season. To keep up with the flu virus, every year new vaccines are
made to combat the new strains.
“The flu shot is needed every year
because the virus is constantly changing and in order to keep up with it, we
need to have new vaccines that target those changes.” (O’Driscoll)
For those that do get sick, flu
vaccination also may make the illness milder and reduce the symptoms in less
time than it might take otherwise.
While it is ideal to get a flu
vaccine before the flu starts spreading in your community, getting vaccinated
later is still beneficial and can prevent you from getting the flu and
spreading it.” (O’Driscoll)
There’s still time for you and your
loved ones to get vaccinated. Get your flu vaccine today.
Back to all Posts