Living a Healthier Life Starts with Family Wellness Activities
September 30, 2020
Kids Health Education Lessons Parents Can Teach at Home
October 22, 2020
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC has stressed that limiting the spread of respiratory illnesses, like the flu, is more important than ever before. Whether you usually receive the flu vaccine, don’t normally get one or have never received it before, consider the significant health benefits of a flu shot.
The Key Health Benefits of a Flu Shot
Influenza — commonly known as the flu — is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly in young children, older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions.
The flu shot provides protection against several types of common influenza viruses. It has been shown to reduce the risk of developing the flu by 40 to 60 percent.
If you are thinking about getting a flu shot this year, consider these important health benefits.
Prevents Adults and Children from Catching the Flu
For decades, the benefits of the flu shot have been well-documented. The CDC estimates that during the 2018-2019 cold season, the flu shot helped to prevent approximately:
- 4 million influenza illnesses
- 3 million influenza-associated medical visits
May Reduce the Severity of Flu Symptoms
Even if you do catch the flu, your yearly vaccination could help you stay healthier this winter.
The flu vaccine can also help to reduce the severity of its symptoms. For example, one study reported that the flu shot reduced deaths, intensive care unit admissions, ICU length of stay and overall hospital stays.
Protects Pregnant Women, those who are Chronically Ill and Children
The benefits of a flu shot are especially important to individuals who are already at high risk of developing health conditions. It has been found to benefit individuals with heart disease, lung disease and diabetes. In pregnant women, the flu shot was found to reduce an expectant mother’s risk of hospitalization by an average of 40 percent.
Safeguards Your Friends and Family
Not only will the flu shot help you stay healthy this winter, it can also protect your loved ones from catching this highly contagious illness. One of the best ways to prevent the flu from spreading in your household is to get your whole family vaccinated.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Get a Flu Shot?
The CDC recommends that most people six months of age or older receive the flu shot once a year. The vaccine is strongly recommended for individuals who are at high risk for developing complications from the flu. However, children less than six months of age and people with severe life-threatening allergies to the vaccine or its ingredients should not receive a flu shot.
Get a Flu Shot at Advantage Care Health Centers
According to the CDC and other experts, the benefits of a flu shot are clear. It is a powerful protection from a very common, highly contagious illness. Advantage Care Health Centers’ team of compassionate medical professionals regularly give flu shots to children and adults at our two locations in Brookville and Freeport. Contact us today to request an appointment.
