Why You Should Get A Flu Shot
If you’re like a lot of Americans you may be wondering why you should bother getting the flu shot. Every year we face the dangers of the flu and we have survived it without the benefit of one of these shots, so why start getting them now? Modern medicine and vaccines have been able to identify the most likely strains of influenza to strike in the upcoming flu season and provide protection against them. With over 200,000 people getting hospitalized due to influenza every year, it’s sensible protection to take.
The Flu Is That Serious?
Yes. For the very young, the very old, and those with impaired immune systems a serious case of the flu can be a death sentence. Even typically healthy people can be at risk if the case of the flu is bad enough. Every year 3,000 to 49,000 people die from symptoms associated with the flu. Certain people are at greater risk from the flu than others, including:
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Patients who have had a stroke or have heart disease
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Adults who are older than 65
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Women who are pregnant
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Patients with HIV or AIDs
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Cancer Patients
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Those with diabetes and asthma
Can The Vaccine Really Prevent The Flu?
Ongoing research has shown that those who get the flu vaccine are nearly 61% less likely to contract flu during any given year. While certain factors render the flu virus more or less effective, this rate has been consistent over multiple years.
What Kinds Of Flu Shots Are There?
You may have heard about different types of flu shots and been wondering what they’re all about. There are actually four different forms of the flu vaccine, with different recommendations as to who should receive each of them.
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Standard Dost Trivalent Shots – These shots are given in the arm or a jet injector, and are appropriate for those between the ages of 18 and 64.
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High Dose Trivalent Shot – These are form patients who are older than 65
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Recombinant Egg-Free Trivalent Shot – Approved for those who have allergies to eggs and are over 18.
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Trivalent with Adjuvant – Adjuvant is a substance that creates a stronger response in the body of the patient. Typically used in those who are over the age of 65.
What About Last Years Flu Shot?
Unfortunately, the shot you received last year won’t provide adequate protection against this year’s strain. The immune response generated by these vaccines decline gradually, so a new dose is needed every year. The flu viruses also change and evolve each year, requiring fresh vaccines to tackle them.
If you’ve been wondering whether you should get a yearly flu vaccine the answer is almost certainly yes. Stop in and speak to Dr. Trang D Nguyen at Conroe Family Doctor about getting you shot in the upcoming year. More than just protecting yourself, getting the flu vaccine protects those around you who may be more susceptible to the dangers associated with the flu. Call today to find out where you can get your shot in Conroe, TX.
