When the weather cools down and flu season begins, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect your health. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do that is by getting your annual flu shot. It only takes a few minutes, but it can make a big difference in keeping you and those around you healthy all season long.
What is the Flu?
The flu (short for influenza) is a common illness that affects your nose, throat, and sometimes your lungs. It spreads easily from person to person—often through coughs, sneezes, or even talking.
Anyone can get the flu, but older adults and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung problems are more likely to develop serious complications. Most people recover in about a week or two, but for some, the flu can lead to serious problems like pneumonia, bronchitis, or heart complications.
Common fly symptoms include:
· Extreme tiredness or body aches
· A sore throat or persistent cough
· Fever or chills
· Runny or stuffy nose
· Headache or general discomfort
Why Get a Flu Shot?
The flu shot is your best protection against the flu. It works by helping your immune system recognize and fight the virus before it can make you sick. Contrary to common myths, you cannot get the flu from the vaccine—it uses an inactive form of the virus that cannot cause infection.
Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to protect against the strains that research shows will be most common during the upcoming season. Because the flu virus changes over time, it’s important to get vaccinated every year for the best protection.
The Benefits of Getting Vaccinated
· Protects You from Getting Sick
The flu shot lowers your chances of catching the flu. It has been shown to reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor with the flu by 40 - 60%.
· Reduces the Risk of Hospitalization
For older adults and people with chronic health conditions, the flu shot can help prevent serious illness that might lead to a hospital stay.
· Makes Illness Milder if You Do Get Sick
Even if you catch the flu after being vaccinated, your symptoms are likely to be less severe—and you’ll recover faster.
Is It Safe?
The flu shot is very safe. Serious reactions are rare, but you should always check with your doctor before getting the shot. Some people may have mild side effects that go away quickly, such as a sore arm, headache, muscle aches, and mild fever or fatigue.
Getting a flu shot each year is an easy and effective way to stay healthy, protect loved ones, and avoid serious illness. It’s quick, safe, and your best defense against the flu.
When and Where to Get Your Flu Shot
The best time to get your flu shot is early in the season—ideally by the end of October—so your body has time to build immunity before flu activity peaks. However, it’s never too late. Even if flu season is already underway, getting vaccinated can still offer valuable protection.
You can get your flu shot at your primary care clinic, most pharmacies, or community health events. Many clinics also offer walk-in appointments or same-day scheduling to make it easy and convenient.
At VIPcare, prevention is at the heart of everything we do. The flu shot is one of many preventive services we recommend to help protect you from illness and maintain your quality of life. Schedule your appointment with VIPcare to receive your flu shot and discover more ways our team can partner with you to keep you healthy.
