Getting the flu vaccine is always your best bet for avoiding the flu. You’re not only protecting yourself from the virus, but everyone around you, too.
Influenza—or flu—is a highly contagious viral infection. About 20% of Americans get the flu each year. It can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or coming into close contact with others. Flu season is highest in winter, but it can happen any time of year and can be mild or severe. Although many are able to recover from the flu, it can be a very serious or deadly illness for young children, older adults, pregnant women and those who have health problems. The best way to reduce your chances of becoming infected with the flu is to get the flu vaccine every year.
How does the flu shot work?
Flu shots inject dead or weakened forms of the flu into your bloodstream, which destroys the flu germs by forming protective antibodies (proteins). Then, when the live flu virus is circulating, your antibodies are ready to fight back.
How is each year’s flu shot made?
The viruses that cause the flu are always changing. A new flu shot is produced each year to protect against the most common strains (types) of viruses. Year-round, 141 national flu centers in 111 countries study flu virus trends, keeping an eye on how the viruses are spreading, and how well the last year’s vaccine attacked the circulating strains. Then, the World Health Organization makes official flu shot strain recommendations to The Food and Drug Administration, who makes the final decision.
Why should you get the vaccine?
Even in years when the vaccine is less effective, CDC research shows that the vaccine prevents outbreaks of the virus. And, even if you get the flu after being vaccinated, you will likely have a milder illness and lower your risk of developing serious health complications. A CDC study looking at the 2011-2012 flu season showed that people who got the flu vaccine were 71% less likely to be hospitalized with the flu. So this flu season, make sure you get your flu shot to protect you, your friends, your family and overall public health.
Here’s more information on flu vaccines. See what we offer at your nearest Walgreens location.
Be well, stay well ~
Pharmacist Andy
Andy Stergachis, Ph.D., R.Ph. is the Director of the Global Medicines Program at the University of Washington in Seattle and a subject expert on public health and pharmacy-related topics.
Source: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/vaccineeffect.htm
Clinically reviewed by Amy Magill on June 29, 2015
