By: BobbieJo Paul, FNP, ATI Active Care
It’s that time of the year again, and we’re all seeing advertisements and stories on the flu shot. These often lead to the question “Should I get the flu shot or not?” While there are differing options about getting the flu shot, it is important to make an informed choice for your health and those around you.
The Flu is Caused by a Virus
There are many strains of the flu, and the virus often mutates. The influenza A and influenza B types are a very contagious respiratory illness in humans. Due to the many strains and the mutation that occurs, the flu vaccine is made based on what strains are predicted to be the predominant cause of illness during the flu season. Typically, a flu vaccine covers three or four strains of flu each year. Often the flu vaccine is effective in keeping many people from becoming ill, being hospitalized or even dying. Since antibiotics cannot treat the flu, antivirals are used to reduce the severity of symptoms and length of time you have the flu.
Common Concerns About the Flu Shot
Will it help?
Is it safe?
Will I get sick if I get the shot?
Last year the shot was less effective than usual, but this was because a mutated virus became predominate, causing more illness than during a normal flu season. With worldwide surveillance, the CDC made recommendations for the strains to cover this year. Based on the influenza that is circulating in other parts of the world, it is expected that the vaccine will be more effective this year.
Most manufactures of the vaccine use eggs for production, so those with a severe egg allergy should talk to their provider about options. Almost all vaccines no longer have the preservative Thimerosal. If you want to know if your shot has this preservative, check with your provider.
Contrary to popular belief, the flu vaccine does not give a person the flu. It is important to remember that the shot is given at a time when colds and other illnesses are starting to circulate. Because it can take a couple days to start having symptoms after you are exposed to an illness, you might receive the shot a day or two before you become ill. So, feeling ill after received the shot is a coincidence. The best prevention is to wash hands well and get the shot when you are not feeling ill.
Also, it’s important remember that there can be NORMAL body responses to the shot—soreness or a pink spot at the injection sight, or a slight increased temperature. However, if you experience something you are not sure of, call your provider to discuss.
By getting the flu shot you can reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill, plus reduce the risk of bringing the illness to your friends, family and those you come into contact with on a daily basis. You are also reducing the chance of passing the illness to a person who cannot be vaccinated due to age, allergy or a health condition that prohibits getting the vaccine.
Prevention is the best way to stay healthy! Get your flu shot, wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing, and stay home if you are ill with a contagious illness.
FLU SHOTS ARE AVAILABLE AT ATI ACTIVE CARE! Get yours for only $25.
ATI Active Care is a walk-in clinic, located in Waukesha, WI, that provides immediate care for non-emergency acute conditions, physicals, health screenings, preventive health and wellness programs. For more information contact BobbieJo Paul at bobbiejopaul@activatehealthcare.com or call (262) 574-2711.