Flu Shot (Vaccine)
Flu shots are one of the most common and effective ways to either avoid obtaining influenza altogether, or minimizing the symptoms if in fact you to become ill.
Questions about vaccines are common. Are they safe? Do I need them? The staff at Care Station Medical Group are available to discuss all your vaccine needs. From Flu to Pneumonia, Shingles, Tetanus and travel immunizations, we are here to help.
“Flu” is short for influenza, a highly contagious respiratory illness. If you’ve ever had the flu, you know it can make you feel just plain awful. In some severe cases, especially in children, older adults or immunocompromised individuals, the flu can even lead to death. In fact, over 30,000 Americans die each year as a result of the flu.
Care Station doctors recommend that virtually everyone gets an annual flu shot.
How contagious is the flu?
The flu is very contagious. You can have the flu for 1 to 4 days before you start feeling sick. This means that you can infect other people – family members, co-workers or friends – before you even know you have the flu.
When should I get my flu vaccine?
The “flu season” occurs in the fall and winter, but the virus can stay active year-round. The vaccine provides protection about two weeks after you receive it but takes up to 12 weeks to be fully effective. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated each flu season, as soon as you can. The earlier the better.
Who should get vaccinated?
The CDC recommends a seasonal influenza vaccination every year for everyone 6 months old and older. Your Care Station medical professional will ask you questions before administering the vaccination, to make sure that you are a suitable candidate for the vaccine.
Are there any side effects of the flu vaccine?
You might have some minor side effects after getting a flu shot, including but not limited to soreness, redness or swelling of the skin where you got the shot, a low-grade fever, or body aches. If you feel any of these side effects, don’t worry. You should feel better within 1 to 2 days. If not, please report any side effects to your Care Station medical professional.
CDC Recommended Types
9 – 17 years of age: Fluzone Trivalent Vaccine
18 – 64 years of age: Flublok Trivalent Vaccine
64 years and older: High Dose Vaccine
