Flu season is comingβ¦ and we’d rather see you at Jones Drug for a flu shot rather than the flu has you feeling miserable.
Every year, influenza sends plenty of people to the couch and sometimes to the doctor or hospital.
While the flu shot can’t promise you’ll never catch the flu, it can lower your chances of getting sick and reduce your risk of serious illness and flu-related complications, including hospitalization.
That’s a pretty good reason to take a few minutes out of your day to get vaccinated.
Who Should Get a Flu Shot?
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions.
It’s especially important for people who may be at greater risk of serious flu complications, including:
- Adults 65 and older
- Young children
- Pregnant women
- People with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic health conditions
- People with weakened immune systems
If you’re 65 or older, there are certain flu vaccines preferentially recommended for your age group. Our pharmacy team can help you understand which option may be appropriate for you.
And remember, getting your flu shot isn’t just about protecting yourself.
Reducing your chances of getting influenza can also help reduce opportunities for the virus to spread to your family, coworkers, grandkids, and others in our community who may be more vulnerable.
Do I Really Need a Flu Shot Every Year?
And yes⦠you really do need one every year.
We know. It seems like you just got last year’s shot.
But influenza viruses change over time, and the protection you received from previous vaccinations can decrease.
That’s why flu vaccines are reviewed each year and updated as needed to better match the viruses expected to circulate during the upcoming season.
Even if you received your flu shot last year, getting vaccinated again this season is recommended.
When Should I Get My Flu Shot?
For most adults, September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated, before flu activity typically increases.
But if those months have already passed, don’t assume you’ve missed your chance.
Getting vaccinated later in the season can still be beneficial while flu viruses are circulating.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response, so getting your shot before flu season is in full swing is a good idea.
Timing may differ for certain people, including some children and pregnant women. If you have questions, just ask us.
Can the Flu Shot Give Me the Flu?
We hear this question quite a bit.
No, the flu shot cannot give you influenza.
Some people experience temporary side effects, such as soreness where the shot was given, fatigue, headache, or mild muscle aches.
These effects are generally mild and short-lived.
And you don’t have to experience side effects for the vaccine to be doing its job.
Before Flu Season Gets You, Come See Us!
At Jones Drug, we’re here to help make staying healthy a little easier.
Whether you have questions about the flu vaccine, aren’t sure which one is right for you, or just need to get your annual shot checked off the list, our pharmacy team is happy to help.
So, before flu season gets into full swing, stop by and see us.
A few minutes at Jones Drug now could help you avoid a whole lot of misery later.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Vaccine recommendations may vary based on age, medical history, allergies, and other factors. Talk with your pharmacist or healthcare provider about what’s appropriate for you.
