With October flying by, the flu is about to set in for its usual season of November through March. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from the flu is by getting a vaccination from your family doctor. Are you unsure whether the flu shot is right for you or whether it has any benefits? Consider why this vaccination is important to get annually.

What Is the Flu Shot?

Every year, a new vaccination to fight the seasonal flu is developed. Scientists use cues from last year’s flu and predictions regarding the current season’s trends to create a vaccination to fight against the new strain of flu virus. This shot, given in one dose by your family doctor or pharmacy, contains an inactivated virus, which stimulates your immune system to create antibodies to fight the flu. Side effects are generally very mild and range from a runny nose to a low-grade fever and usually resolve within five to seven days.

What Are the Benefits of the Flu Shot?

The flu shot given by your family doctor or pharmacy  serves several important purposes. Because the flu virus impacts everyone differently, you may experience severe symptoms if you catch it, including high fevers, dehydration, worsening of a chronic illness, and even bacterial pneumonia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that some people are at a higher risk of complications if they catch the flu, including young children, the elderly, and people with many types of pre-existing medical conditions. Because the flu vaccination is recommended for any individual over the age of six months, there are many varieties of flu vaccinations available. 

Since 2006, the professionals at Mayer Clinic have taken care of the Fairbanks, AK, community’s health care needs with personal attention and an emphasis on privacy. Whether you’re looking for your seasonal flu vaccination or need a new family doctor, Mayer Clinic offers compassionate, competent care in a comfortable environment. To learn more about the benefits of getting a yearly flu vaccination, visit the clinic’s website or call 907-457-5050.