Around 400,000 respiratory deaths are caused by the flu each year. Even more people die from complications caused by the virus.
While that information can be discouraging, there is good news. There are flu shots in Boulder that help protect you and your family from the influenza virus. It’s common for people to have questions about the flu vaccine. Below, we’ve included all the information you need to know so you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Why Get the Annual Flu Shot
There are several reasons why you should consider getting the flu shot.
- The flu can make you feel miserable and even lead to missed days at work or school. By getting vaccinated, you reduce your risk of getting sick.
- The flu can be dangerous for vulnerable populations. This includes young children, pregnant people, and the elderly.
- By getting vaccinated, you help protect them as well as yourself.
- The flu has the potential to lead to severe respiratory complications. For many people, this means spending time at the hospital. By getting the flu shot, the risk of these severe outcomes is reduced.
Who Is It For?
The vaccine for the flu is recommended for the majority of people.
However, there are a few exceptions, but it’s safe for most people over the age of six months.
Children, adults, seniors, healthcare workers, pregnant people, and people with chronic health conditions can receive this vaccination.
If you do have questions or concerns, talking with a medical professional at our facility is recommended. We want everyone to feel safe, comfortable, and healthy, so don’t hesitate to ask.
When to Get It
Getting flu shots in Boulder should be done yearly. It’s best to get the vaccination before the peak of flu season.
This is typically from October to March and takes about two weeks for the vaccine to build immunity. Getting the vaccination early helps provide optimal protection.
However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated during the flu season. We understand that life gets busy sometimes, and getting your flu shot may have slipped your mind. Even if there’s an outbreak, you can still benefit from the shot.
Types of Flu Shots You Can You Get?
Types of Flu Shots in Boulder
One of the reasons the flu is so dangerous is because influenza viruses can mutate over time. This leads to different strains of the virus, making it hard to eradicate completely.
There are three main types of influenza viruses; A, B, and C
- Influenza A viruses are the most common and generally the most severe. Influenza A infections tend to occur earlier in the flu season (October-March).
- Influenza B viruses are also common but tend to occur later in the flu season (January-May).
- Lastly, C viruses are respiratory infections that are less common than A and B and produce the mildest of symptoms.
Every year, scientists monitor the influenza strains and predict which strains will most likely circulate during the upcoming flu season. Health organizations all over the world will use this data to develop the vaccine and target the most prevalent strains.
Since the composition of the flu vaccine can vary from year to year, scientists adapt it to the circulating strains. It’s recommended that you get a flu shot every year. This helps protect you against the most relevant strains of that flu season. The flu vaccine helps protect you against two types of influenza A and two types of influenza B.
Crossroads Medical Center offers the inactivated influenza vaccine. This is the most common type of flu shot.
It’s made by using flu viruses that have been killed and are no longer infectious. They are suitable for the majority of individuals, including young children and the elderly. It is administered as an injection.
What are the Potential Side Effects?
Potential Side Effects
Getting the flu shot is safe and effective. It’s also a medical intervention, which does come with some risks and potential side effects. It’s important to note that the majority of people only experience mild and temporary side effects.
Some people don’t experience any at all, and it’s extremely rare for someone to have serious side effects.
One of the most common side effects of the flu shot is muscle soreness. This discomfort is usually mild and goes away on its own within a day or two. You may notice some redness and swelling at the site where the shot was given.
You may also experience a low-grade fever. Generally, it’s less than 100.4°F.
This is a sign that the body is building immunity. A fever is more common in children than in adults.
You may feel tired, have body aches, and/or a headache after the shot, as well. All side effects should be gone after a few days.
Cost of Flu Protection
Getting a Flu Shot Near You
Your health should be your number one priority. Getting flu shots in Boulder is an easy way to protect yourself and others.
It’s important to understand the flu vaccine and all of its benefits. The more you know, the easier it’ll be to take proactive steps so you can stay healthy during flu season.
Don’t wait to stop the spread of this virus.
If you have questions, Contact our team at Crossroads Medical Center today!
Schedule an appointment today.
