STAY FLU-FREE THIS SEASON AND GET VACCINATED

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It is highly contagious and can cause a range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.

THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU INCLUDE:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU:
Symptoms of the flu can include high fever, chills, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include sore throat, cough, and mucus production. A person who has a cold or the flu is contagious until they are no longer sick.

IN ADDITION TO VACCINATION, THERE ARE OTHER MEASURES THAT CAN HELP TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF THE FLU:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick to prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

WHY IS FLU VACCINATION IMPORTANT?
The vaccine works by helping your body produce antibodies against the disease, so it cannot cause illness or spread easily among uninfected individuals. It is also important to note that vaccinations protect those at high risk of serious complications from influenza, such as pregnant women and people over the age of 65. Flu vaccinations are the most effective method of preventing the flu and preventing its spread. Pregnant women, children under 5 years, and people 65 years and older who are at high risk of serious complications should also be vaccinated.
The flu vaccine can help prevent severe illness and the need for hospitalization by reducing the severity of the flu. It may also help prevent complications such as pneumonia.

FLU VACCINES ARE RECOMMENDED FOR ALL CHILDREN AND ADULTS OVER THE AGE OF 6 MONTHS (AND USUALLY BETWEEN THE AGES OF 2-49).
Flu vaccines protect against 3 types of influenza viruses: Type A virus which causes most cases of seasonal flu; Type B virus which can lead to serious illnesses like pneumonia and sometimes death; Type C virus which is also known as H1N1 or swine flu. 

The main reason why we vaccinate our children is, so they do not get sick with any type of influenza. But there are other reasons too: 

• Vaccinating your child prevents them from getting sick with an infection caused by one or more strains of influenza virus circulating during their season (usually October to May) ·
• All healthy children should receive two doses at least six months apart · Children who did not get vaccinated last year may be protected this year because their immune systems have been strengthened by previous vaccinations · 
• Vaccinating healthy children helps prevent the spread of influenza to other people in your family or school. 
• Flu vaccines are safe and effective at protecting against serious illnesses such as pneumonia, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by seasonal influenza viruses. There is no evidence that they cause autism or any other health problems. 

WHEN FLU VACCINATION IS NOT RECOMMENDED
The vaccine is not recommended for any person who has had a life-threatening reaction to the flu shot, including anaphylaxis. If you have a severe allergy or sensitivity to latex, eggs, or other ingredients in the vaccine (such as neomycin), ask your doctor if it is safe for you to receive this vaccine.

It's important to get vaccinated against the flu every year, as the strains of the virus can change, and the immunity provided by the vaccine can wane over time. 

Talk to your healthcare provider about which type of flu vaccine is best for you and when is the best time to get vaccinated. By following preventive measures and getting vaccinated, we can help to reduce the spread of the flu. We can also protect ourselves and our loved ones from this potentially serious illness.

 Fight the flu with vaccination & book your appointment NOW!