Flu season can be a challenging time for individuals and families, particularly in areas with high population densities or those prone to quick weather changes. At NewMed Immediate Care, located conveniently in Rolling Meadows, we offer flu shots as a key preventive measure to help protect our community from the influenza virus. Getting vaccinated each year is one of the best ways to reduce flu outbreaks and maintain public health.
Importance of Flu Vaccination
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe health complications, especially in young children, elderly adults, and individuals with certain chronic health conditions. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most common types of flu viruses expected during the upcoming season. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help safeguard those around you by reducing the spread of the virus.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for:
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Adults aged 65 and older
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease
- Healthcare workers and caregivers
What to Expect When Getting a Flu Shot
The Procedure:
Getting a flu shot at NewMed Immediate Care is quick and straightforward. The vaccine is typically administered in the upper arm. It’s a standard injection that takes just a few seconds, with only minor discomfort, such as a quick pinch.
Side Effects:
Side effects of the flu shot are generally mild and may include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or muscle aches. These symptoms are temporary and usually subside within a day or two.
Effectiveness:
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary from season to season depending on how well the vaccine matches the circulating viruses. However, even when there is a mismatch, the vaccine can still help lessen the severity and duration of flu symptoms.
FAQs About Seasonal Flu Shots
The flu virus mutates rapidly, and last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year’s viruses. Additionally, the immune protection from the vaccine declines over time, making an annual vaccination necessary for optimal protection.
No, the flu shot cannot cause the flu. The vaccines are made with inactivated (killed) viruses or with only a single protein from the flu virus.
The best time to get vaccinated is before flu begins spreading in your community, ideally by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season.
Visit NewMed Immediate Care for Your Flu Shot
Don’t wait until flu season is in full swing. Visit NewMed Immediate Care in Rolling Meadows to get your flu shot and take a significant step towards protecting yourself and your community from influenza. Our experienced medical staff is ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have about the flu vaccine.