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Now that summer’s winding down, it’s time to start thinking about the 2019-2020 flu season. To ensure your immunity against this illness and help protect your family, friends, and coworkes, you should get your flu shot in the early fall. Since it can take a few weeks after getting the vaccine to develop the antibodies you’ll need to fend off the flu, this ensures optimal protection. Here are a few other things you should know about the flu shot so you can stay well this winter. 

Why Are Annual Flu Shots Necessary?

It’s important to get a flu vaccine every year because the viruses that cause influenza are constantly changing. As such, experts devise a new formula every year for protecting against the viruses they anticipate will be the most prevalent during the upcoming flu season. Even if you’re not particularly worried about falling ill yourself, getting the vaccine will contribute to herd immunity, which ultimately protects vulnerable individuals who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons. The more people who are immunized, the slower the virus will spread. 

Who Should Get a Flu Shot?

flu shotGenerally speaking, everyone over 6 months old should get a flu shot. There are some populations, though, that should prioritize the vaccine because they’re especially susceptible to complications if they come down with the virus. Such populations include senior citizens, pregnant women, individuals with asthma, children younger than 5, and anyone with a compromised immune system

How Is the Flu Vaccine Administered?

There are three ways you can get vaccinated for the flu. You may already be familiar with the regular flu shot, which is what most people receive. There is also a high-dose option, which provides better protection. Doctors recommend this vaccine for senior citizens. For children who are afraid of needles, there is also a nasal spray, although it’s not as effective as an injection. 

 

 

To arrange flu shots for the whole family, turn to HealthSmartVaccines. Based in Chantilly, VA, they provide comprehensive immunizations for adults. From travel vaccines to TB testing, they offer a broad range of services which they can tailor your particular needs. They also do what they can to ensure herd immunity for everyone's protection, including traveling to commercial locations to vaccinate entire corporations. To learn more about this year’s flu shot, reach out on their website or call (703) 961-0733.

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