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Ever winter, flu season leaves millions of Americans heading to their local health clinic with cough, runny noses, fever, fatigue, body aches and more. The FLU season starts as early as October, making now the perfect time to get your flu shot. Find out how the shot protects you and who should get it.

How the Flu Shot Works

health clinicThe illness most people refer to as the flu is a viral infection caused by the influenza virus. There are multiple strains of this virus, and they often mutate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year, health professionals work to determine which strains of the flu will be most common in the coming fall and winter and create a vaccine based on this profile. 

The effectiveness of the flu shot varies from year to year. Even if you received the vaccine last year and still managed to get the flu, there is still value in getting one again this year because each year’s vaccine is different. Your odds of getting the flu are still greatly decreased when you’ve had the current vaccine.   Further, if you do get sick your symptoms are likely to be much less severe.

Who Needs a Flu Shot

Since influenza vaccines vary every year, it’s essential to get a flu shot annually. The CDC recommends that all persons ages six months and over get vaccinated.

There are rare exceptions, such as people with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccine or ingredients in it, such as gelatin or antibiotics. If you aren’t sure whether you should get a flu shot, talk to the doctor at your local health clinic first. They can help you determine the best course of action for getting through this year’s flu season with the best health possible. 

What If you become ill with the FLU

People with influenza are contagious and should stay home.  Good Nutrition, Rest, and hydration are important factors in speeding your recovery.  Treating symptoms aggressively can help you feel better and may decrease the contagiousness. Cover your mouth and nose while coughing.  Wearing a mask and washing hands protects others from your illness. Avoid alcohol and tobacco while ill, especially.

IF You become ill with the flu then you should definitely go to the closest medical clinic, as early as possible.  There is treatment available for influenza but it must be started with in first 24-72 hours to be effective.  In fact it is more effective the earlier it is started.

 

Patients First Medical Clinic in Anchorage, AK, has received their flu shots for the year and is prepared to protect you and your family for the winter to come. If you have insurance then the flu shot is cost FREE to you since we will bill your insurance for you. This full-service health clinic provides both general family practice and urgent care services. Whether you need emergency treatment for a fractured bone or want help managing your allergy care, they can help. Learn more about their practice’s approach to patient care online. If you have questions about any of the health clinic’s services, call 907-333-SICK (7425). That is triple 3 SICK.

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