The flu can leave you bedridden for days and even be deadly in extreme cases. Winter is the high season for contracting the virus, but a flu vaccine will reduce your risk. The family doctors at Patient Choice Medical Care in Hamden, CT, offer primary care services for people of all ages and recommend getting a flu shot to preserve your health.

The flu vaccine reduces your chance of getting the virus by as much as 60%. It also protects people around you because you will be less likely to pass along the illness to family members, friends, and coworkers. The vaccine is important for people of all ages but is particularly vital for vulnerable members of the population.

Children, the elderly, and people who have compromised immune systems due to diseases or medications should prioritize getting a flu shot. The flu vaccine also is beneficial for pregnant women. Studies also have shown newborns continue to be protected by their mother’s shot several months after their birth. 

You should not wait until winter to be vaccinated. It can take a week or two for a shot to become fully effective, and you could contract the virus during that period. Fall is the best time to get the flu vaccine to ensure you’re ready for the peak season. You should be vaccinated annually because the protection could increase in effectiveness over time.

If you have not had a flu shot this year, schedule one with a primary care physician. In the New Haven County, CT, area, call Patient Choice Medical Care at (203) 535-0262 or send a message online to request an appointment. Their family medicine staff will make it easy and convenient for you to get a flu vaccine, an annual checkup, and other services to boost your well-being. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for more advice from their team.