With flu season just around the corner, many health professionals are already reminding their patients to get the flu shot. However, some people will skip the immunization due to fear, inconvenience, or lack of knowledge. Forgoing the shot can have serious consequences for your health and those in your community. That’s why the team at Access Health Clinic in Spring, TX, want to share the following benefits of getting immunized.

Prevents Illness & Death

The influenza virus causes a range of symptoms, from mild fevers, body aches, and a cough, to serious complications like pneumonia, central nervous system issues, and heart problems. By getting immunized, you can avoid these symptoms and keep up with your daily activities.  Don’t wait to get your immunization, full protection from the flu shot can take up to two weeks to develop. 

Addresses Current Flu Strains

Even if you got a flu shot last year, you need another dose this year because the virus mutates into new strains. In response, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determines which strain is the most prevalent and tailors the vaccine to fight it. 

Keeps the Disease From Spreading

Healthy people can contract and transmit the flu without knowing it. Even if they don’t show any symptoms, they can still pass it on to others, putting friends, family members, and co-workers at risk.

Boosts Herd Immunity

Vaccines are most effective at preventing disease outbreaks when as many people as possible get immunized. This helps protect vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immunity. Some of these people can’t get vaccinated due to age or a medical condition, so they rely on the people around them to be healthy. If they get sick, they experience more severe symptoms and are at higher risk for death. By getting the flu shot, you’re doing your part to keep the community healthy. 

Fits Into Your Schedule

There’s no need to make an appointment to get your flu shot. Access Health Clinic offers walk-in services and you can get a flu shot anytime during regular hours.  Not only is this quicker than visiting a doctor’s office, but it can also be less expensive.  Flu shots will be available starting in the fall for the coming season. Adult flu shots are $20 and children under 18 years old are $10.  

Getting this year’s flu shot is one of the simplest things you can do to protect your health. Access Health Clinic offers low-cost vaccinations, making it easy for you to get the care you need. Call (281) 251-8700 or visit their website to learn more about the walk-in clinic’s services and hours.