As the winter months approach, the risk of contracting the flu increases. The seasonal flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms, including fever, cough, and body aches. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu affects millions of people in the United States each year, resulting in thousands of hospitalizations and deaths. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu is by getting vaccinated. In this article, we will cover the basics of seasonal flu vaccines and provide information on how to stay safe during flu season.
What is the Flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or health status, and can cause mild to severe symptoms. The flu is highly contagious and can spread quickly through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can also spread through touching surfaces that have the flu virus on them and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated against the flu each year. This includes:
Children and adults with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
Pregnant women
People 65 years of age and older
Healthcare workers
Caregivers of people at high risk of complications from the flu
Types of Flu Vaccines
There are several types of flu vaccines available, including:
Inactivated flu vaccine (IIV): This is the most common type of flu vaccine and is given as a shot.
Live attenuated flu vaccine (LAIV): This is a nasal spray vaccine that is given to people 2-49 years of age.
Recombinant flu vaccine (RIV): This is a flu vaccine that is made using recombinant technology and is given as a shot.
Benefits of Getting Vaccinated
Getting vaccinated against the flu can provide several benefits, including:
Reducing the risk of contracting the flu
Reducing the severity of symptoms if you do get the flu
Preventing flu-related complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis
Protecting people at high risk of complications from the flu, such as older adults and young children
When to Get Vaccinated
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated against the flu as soon as the vaccine becomes available, usually in late summer or early fall. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the flu vaccine to become effective, so it's best to get vaccinated before the flu season starts.
Getting vaccinated against the flu is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. By understanding the basics of seasonal flu vaccines and taking steps to get vaccinated, you can reduce your risk of contracting the flu and prevent flu-related complications. Remember, the flu can be a serious illness, especially for people at high risk of complications. Don't wait โ get vaccinated today and stay safe during flu season.
For more information on seasonal flu vaccines and how to stay safe during flu season, visit the CDC website. Stay healthy and stay informed!
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