There is still time to protect against the flu
The holidays are here, and while that means more opportunity for spreading cheer, it also means more opportunity for spreading flu and other respiratory viruses as people resume traveling and gathering with family and friends.
National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec. 5-11) is an important reminder to those eligible to check one crucial element off their list this holiday season: a flu vaccine.
The flu virus, along with other respiratory viruses, are circulating at high levels nationwide.
It’s crucial people remain proactive in protecting themselves and loved ones from getting sick by staying up-to-date on vaccinations.
“Receiving the flu vaccination every year is one of the best things a person can do to prevent the flu,” says Tristan O’Driscoll, Aspirus Infectious Disease Pharmacist.
Peak flu season is typically in the fall and winter, from December to March. However, this year hospitals from all over the country have seen a rise in flu cases much earlier than normal.
While the flu is a widespread and common virus, it can still lead to serious complications resulting in hospitalization and sometimes even death.
When individuals receive their flu vaccine, they’re not just protecting themselves from the flu, but also protecting the people around them who may be more vulnerable.
Those most at risk and encouraged to get the flu vaccines are people with certain chronic health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, along with pregnant women, and those over the age of 65.
The flu vaccination is one that is needed annually and everyone six months and older is eligible.
Flu viruses are constantly changing, and multiple flu viruses can circulate at the same time during any given flu season. To keep up with the flu virus, every year new vaccines are made to combat the new strains.
“The flu shot is needed every year because the virus is constantly changing and in order to keep up with it, we need to have new vaccines that target those changes,” said O’Driscoll.
For those that do get sick, flu vaccination also may make the illness milder and reduce the symptoms in less time than it might take otherwise.
While it is ideal to get a flu vaccine before the flu starts spreading in your community, getting vaccinated later is still beneficial and can prevent you from getting the flu and spreading it,” O’Driscoll said.
There’s still time for you and your loved ones to get vaccinated. Get your flu vaccine today.
Contact your regular healthcare provider or to schedule a flu shot. Flu shots are also available at the Taylor County Health Department, phone 715-748-1410.
