Influenza is a common disease caused by several related strains of viruses. In healthy adults, it causes fever, coughing, congestion, soreness, fatigue, and, sometimes, digestive problems like vomiting. In children, seniors, and those with existing health issues, the disease can be severe and even deadly. It circulates more freely in the winter months, so to combat this, doctors offer flu immunizations each year.

Why the Vaccine Works

The flu vaccine stimulates your body's natural immune response, teaching your system to recognize the virus and fight it. Normally, your body would not start learning to fight the flu until you're actually infected with it, so you would be sick for a while before your body could overcome the illness.

After getting the vaccine from a doctor, your immune system will learn to work against the virus as soon as it enters your body, preventing you from getting sick in the first place.

When Should You Get It?

After receiving your flu shot, it takes about two weeks for your immune system to produce the antibodies that will protect you. Flu season starts around December, so ideally you should get your shot by mid-November at the latest. However, late is always better than never. Your body's immunity will decrease over time, so you also need to get another flu shot every year.

What's the Truth Behind Common Misconceptions?

Many people believe that the flu shot gives them the flu, but this isn't possible. Instead, they likely got sick in the two week period after getting the vaccine but before developing the antibodies that would protect them or they came down with a different virus that has similar symptoms. Having a notable reaction to the vaccine itself is extremely rare; the worst the large majority of people will experience is a little soreness.

If you need to see a doctor for this year's flu shot and other preventative care services, choose Dumas Family Practice. Serving the Texas panhandle for over 26 years, they see patients of all ages and are your family's partner in both preventing illnesses and treating them when they occur. To schedule an appointment, call (806) 935-9005, or find their new patient information online.