Fall is the time for crisp air, colorful leaves, pumpkin spice flavors, longer nights, and, unfortunately, the flu. Starting now and ending around May, America’s flu season has begun. To help you and your family enjoy the months ahead without getting sick, now is the time to start taking precautions against the flu.
What can we expect this flu season?
The flu season in the US last year lasted 21 weeks; making 2018 - 2019 the longest flu season recorded here in a decade. Currently, Australia’s flu season is one of the worst on record, sparking worries that the US is in for a dangerous flu season this year.
For health experts around the world, predicting the spread of flu strains is challenging due to the many factors involved – weather, vaccination rates, the mutation of viruses, etc. With the flu season typically peaking in February, it is too early to know for sure what this year has in store.
No matter the severity of the flu season this year, the CDC says their recommendation will remain the same: get vaccinated as soon as possible. To provide the best protection throughout the flu season, the CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older get vaccinated, ideally by the end of October. That means if you haven’t done so, now is the time to get your vaccine.
Who is at risk for the flu?
Influenza viruses are highly contagious. The flu can be transmitted before symptoms begin – so even if no one around you is showing signs of the flu, you aren’t fully protected until you’re vaccinated.
While most people experience unpleasant symptoms like fever, headache, coughing, congestion and fatigue when they have the flu, the illness can be much more serious for some people. In the US, an average of 200,000 people are hospitalized each year due to the flu, and 36,000 die, according to Harvard University.
The most at-risk people are young children, the elderly, and those with certain health conditions or compromised immune systems. Unfortunately, the people who are most at risk from the flu are often unable to receive the vaccine due to medical reasons. Their best protection is for those around them to be vaccinated.
Where can I get the flu vaccine?
To protect you and your loved ones, Physicians Immediate Care offers the most up-to-date flu vaccine on a walk-in basis.
While there are several approved forms of flu vaccine on the market, Physicians Immediate Care is proud to offer the best of cutting-edge medical technology. That’s why we’ve chosen to offer Flucelvax as our influenza vaccine. Unlike most other flu vaccines, Flucelvax is developed in a cell culture instead of being grown inside eggs, making it safer for those with allergies. It is also free of preservatives like formaldehyde, antibiotics, gluten, gelatin, latex and thimerosal. Available as a shot, Flucelvax is approved for adults and children aged 4 and up. Learn more about the flu vaccine at Physicians Immediate Care here.
The sooner you get your flu vaccine, the better protection you will have this flu season. Walk in or reserve a time today at a clinic near you to receive the best in convenient, quality care.