It’s that time of year again—flu season is here.
The flu, short for influenza, is a viral infection that affects your respiratory system—your nose, throat, and lungs. While most people can get better on their own, the flu can lead to serious complications for certain groups, including older adults, young children and those with chronic health conditions.
Flu symptoms can include cough, fever, sore throat, headache, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Beyond these, the flu can put extra stress on other parts of your body, including your heart and brain. Knowing the risks and taking preventive steps, like getting vaccinated, can help you stay healthy this season.
I would recommend getting a flu shot for multiple reasons:
- Lower your risk: The flu shot reduces your chances of getting sick. And if you do catch the flu, being vaccinated usually means a milder illness and faster recovery.
- Protect the people you love: Your flu shot helps shield those most at risk like young children, older adults and people with chronic health conditions.
- Stay out of the hospital: Flu vaccination is associated with lower flu-related hospitalizations and deaths, making it a powerful tool for your health.
- Save time and money: Avoid the missed days of work or school and the medical costs associated with treating the flu.
You might wonder, can the vaccine can give you the flu or other diseases? The answer is no. The vaccine cannot give you the flu. Some people may feel a little achy or have a fever for a day or two after receiving the vaccine, but that’s actually a good thing. This means your body is building the protective antibodies it needs to fight off the flu.
It takes about two weeks for the flu shot to provide full protection, so if you are exposed to influenza before or during that time period, you might still get the flu.
One little shot. Big peace of mind. Schedule a time or walk in during our flu vaccination clinic hours. To schedule, call 507.457.7648. Please visit winonahealth.org/flu for information including dates and times.
Jennifer Forsyth, DO, Winona Health