Why Is the Flu Shot Important? Know The Reasons and Their Benefits

The flu season seems quite unpleasant for many people, particularly the elderly, kids, and individuals with comorbidities. People prone to different allergies also tend to suffer during the flu season. CDC reports say that in the 2022-23 flu season, flu activity is comparatively low, but the flu season has set in early in many countries. In the first CDC update for the 2022-23 flu reporting season, there has been a surge in positive reports from flu tests in the past few weeks.

One of the best ways of combating the flu is by receiving the flu shot. For the first week of the flu season of the 2022-23 season, 115.8 million flu vaccine doses have already been distributed in the United States of America. In this blog, we will learn why the flu shot is important, its benefits, the right time to get it, where you can get it, etc.

Why Is the Flu Shot Important?

A flu vaccine helps prevent illness, medical issues, hospitalizations, and deaths. Every flu season is different, and people get infected by influenza in many ways. You can manage minor cases of flu at home. However, serious cases need intensive medical intervention.

Flu complications include sinus infections, ear infections, bacterial pneumonia, asthma, and complications of chronic conditions. In many cases, hospitalization becomes inevitable.

However, taking the vaccine does not ensure you will not get the flu; the intensity of the virus will be lesser, which might save your life!

What Are the Benefits of the Flu Vaccine?

“Should I get the flu vaccine?” is a common question. The answer is yes, you must. Let us look at the several benefits of the flu vaccine and understand why the flu shot is important.

• Flu shots or vaccines help protect people who are at higher risk of getting ill from the flu. Elderly people, young children, infants below 6 months, people with chronic health conditions, and people who are allergy-prone fall in the high-risk zone.
• Flu vaccination minimizes the intensity of sickness from the flu. It is also a great means for protecting people around you who are highly vulnerable to flu-like illnesses.
• Flu vaccinations minimize the chances of flu complications. People recover without hospitalization and critical care with vaccination at the right time. Death rates have also been reduced with a timely flu vaccination.
• Flu vaccination protects women during pregnancy. The baby also remains protected for 6 months after its birth.

Dr. Cecil Bennett's Interview on FOX 5 Atlanta Talking About the Importance of Flu Shots This Season

Video Source: FOX 5 Atlanta

Reasons You Should Get a Flu Vaccine

Still in double mind and wondering, “should I get the flu vaccine?” Here are 6 reasons why you should.

1. Helps in reducing the number of sick days
Getting a flu shot on time helps reduce the possibility of getting the flu or having a serious case. Even if you do get sick, you will likely recover soon and be able to get back to work promptly.

2. A flu shot is life-saving
Many people take influenza lightly until it becomes a serious problem needing hospitalization and even death. With a flu shot, you can avoid such complications and recover quicker.

3. Special flu shots for elderly people
Older adults tend to be highly affected by the flu. There are special flu shots which are for senior citizens particularly. These shots provide higher levels of protection from the flu virus.

4. Mild side effects
A flu shot might lead to mild side effects like body aches, slight fever, sore throat, or stuffy nose. Do not worry since they pass quickly. Taking the flu vaccine is better than getting sick for a few weeks.

5. Helps with herd immunity
Flu shots help in developing herd immunity. With everyone getting the vaccine, the infection is less likely to spread from one person to another.

6. Easily available for all age groups
One of the greatest benefits of the flu shot is that it is easily available and within an affordable range. It is applicable and available for all age groups.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?

The best way to keep influenza at bay or to minimize its effects is to take a flu shot right at the beginning of the flu season, preferably by the mid to end of October. It is the best time to get the flu shot.

Need Help in Getting a Flu Shot in Georgia? Contact Newnan Family Medicine

Now that you know the flu shot’s benefits, you can contact our well-equipped experts at Newnan Family Medicine Associates P.C. to help you with yours. Schedule your appointment today to protect yourself from the flu this season.