The Influenza Vaccine Flu season is here! Influenza, most commonly referred to as the flu, is a disease that can impact anyone. Although it’s often thought to be mild, the flu can be serious. Millions of people catch the flu each year, and thousands die from flu-related complications. The best way to protect yourself is to get the annual influenza vaccine, or “flu shot.” What is the Flu Shot? Like most vaccines, the flu shot causes antibodies to form within your body that protect against the virus. There are a variety of vaccines available, offered as either an injection or nasal spray. If you are over 49 years old, pregnant or have a weakened immune system, the nasal spray option is not recommended. Why Should I Get a Flu Shot? Lowers Flu Risk Getting an annual flu shot can protect you from the most common strains of the influenza virus. This means you are less likely to get sick and miss work, school or other events. Reduces Flu Severity Even if you are vaccinated against the flu, there is still a chance you will get it. However, your symptoms will likely be less severe than if you had not gotten the vaccine. Less Likely to Be Hospitalized Each year people are admitted to the hospital due to flu-related complications. The flu vaccine can lower your risk of hospitalization, especially for those with chronic conditions like diabetes. Protect Those Around You By getting vaccinated, you are lowering the likelihood of exposing those closest to you from the flu. This is especially important for vulnerable populations like children, older adults and people with certain health conditions. Keep Children Safe It is recommended that children 6 months and older get the flu vaccine. Being vaccinated significantly reduces their risk of catching a severe flu virus, which can cause life-threatening complications or death. If you are pregnant, getting the flu vaccine can protect your infant while they are too young to be vaccinated. Though some people may experience side effects, the influenza vaccine cannot give you the flu. Common side effects of the vaccine include headaches, muscle aches, fever and fatigue. These typically do not last long and are milder than flu symptoms. Where Can I Get a Flu Shot? Warfighters are required to receive the annual flu vaccine. These are covered by TRICARE and are available at most pharmacies. Contact your command’s medical department to get your flu shot. You can also check out this tool from the CDC to find a vaccination location near you. Additional ResourcesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention - “Vaccine Benefits”ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention - “Seasonal Flu Vaccines”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine”
