With flu season approaching, it is essential to get your vaccine soon. The annual vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the flu, there are many benefits including reducing the risk of illness, hospitalizations and death. Here are our top three reasons you should get yours today.
A Flu Shot Can Save Your Life
According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized each year for illnesses associated with the flu. The flu can also be deadly, particularly for people who have heart disease, experienced a stroke, have chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes and adults 65 and older. During the 2017-2018 flu season an estimated 80,000 people died.
To Help Protect Others
Getting a flu vaccination each year is the best way to stay ahead of the flu and protect the people you care about. The flu is more dangerous for several groups, including older adults and children under 2 years old. The more people get vaccinated, the less flu will spread around the community. This means fewer hospitalizations and deaths.
Vaccination Reduces the Risk Of Getting Sick
Getting vaccinated can help reduce the severity of symptoms if you catch it. You may experience a headache, stuffy nose or sore throat but with the flu usually lasting around 2 weeks of severe symptoms, this is definitely a better alternative. It also helps reduce your sick days taken off work or school.
It is important to get a flu vaccine every year because flu viruses are constantly changing, meaning the vaccines are always updated. Your protection from a flu vaccine declines over time. Getting your vaccination yearly is for the best protection. Find out where to get your flu vaccine today.
You can call UofL Health – Primary Care Hotline Monday-Friday at 502-588-4343 to schedule an appointment for your flu vaccinations or visit your nearest UofL Health – Urgent Care Plus location.
