Ideally, most patients will get their flu shot sometime in the fall, before flu season reaches its peak. For whatever reason, some people find themselves in the midst of flu season, still without a flu vaccination.
In the late winter months, our nurses and primary care physicians at Catholic Health are constantly asked whether it’s even worth it to get a “late” flu shot, especially if warmer weather is just around the corner. In such cases, it’s important to understand that there’s no set timeline for flu season – it varies from year to year.
“Adults over 60 and children under 6 are the most likely to develop complications and die from flu-related illness. Not only does vaccination reduce your risk of contracting the flu, but it also lessens the likeliness that you’ll spread it to others, especially those most vulnerable, like our children and parents.
Yes, you can still contract the flu if you have been vaccinated, but your symptoms will be far less serious, and I feel the benefits of the vaccination far outweigh the risks.”
3 Reasons to Get Your Flu Shot
1Keep your symptoms in check.No vaccine on the market is able to protect against every type of flu virus. Still, being vaccinated gives you a better chance for a more manageable illness.
2Last year’s shot doesn’t cut it.Think of your flu vaccine as being time-sensitive – last year’s shot won’t help you out this flu season. In addition, vaccines are updated each year to protect against the most common strains of flu.
3Make sure your loved ones are safe. Possibly the only thing worse than getting the flu? Seeing your symptoms passed on to a spouse, little one, or elderly relative… all because you didn’t get your shot.
Missed getting a flu shot? You still have time. In fact, it’s never too late to fight the flu! Schedule an appointment with your primary doctor as soon as possible to get your vaccination.
Find a Doctor Near You
Call (716) 706-2112
Find a Doctor Near You
Call (716) 706-2112
