According to the CDC, getting an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.
The 2017-2018 flu season arrived early and in some states, has been the worst on record. It’s not too late to get your flu shot. Remember, the more people who get vaccinated, the more people will be protected from flu, including older people, very young children, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term health conditions who are more vulnerable to serious flu complications. Ensure that you are protected yourself, as well as others around you.
The seasonal flu is back again and without protection and precautions, it can cause harm to you and the children in your care. To protect yourself and those most vulnerable, the flu vaccine is important!
Unfortunately many may dismiss the flu as a common sickness that “isn’t that bad.” That is simply not the case. There are some very serious cases of the flu and those most vulnerable to infection, including the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems, can end up very sick, hospitalized or even worse.
To protect yourself, as well as those you care about, make sure you are taking proper precautions and the seasonal flu vaccine is a great start! For the 2017-2018 flu season, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends yearly influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Also, make sure you are protecting yourself and others by proper handwashing and covering your coughs and sneezes! If you feel sick, make sure you stay away from others, especially those at-risk people mentioned above. By taking these precautions, you are not only taking care of yourself, but you’re helping others.
Flu shots are available through your primary care physician, as well as many other places like public health departments, pharmacies, and other health clinics. Some even offer incentives like gift cards and retail discounts for those receiving the vaccine! To find a location near you, visit the Flu Vaccine Finder here. And for related information about the flu, resources, and other great info, you can visit the CDC’s website.
Ensuring you are safeguarded from the flu is important, but equally important is that you are shielding others. Be proactive and make sure you have the latest information and resources, and that you are protecting yourself and those for whom you care.
