Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a virus that attacks the respiratory system. It is a highly contagious illness that can cause fever, body aches, and congestion. It can also lead to more severe health complications such as pneumonia. The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated each year. Here are six convincing reasons to get a yearly flu vaccine:
1. The flu shot can save your life
Seriously, according to the CDC, influenza has resulted in between 140,000 and 960,000 hospitalizations in the United States each year since 2010. And while most people who get the influenza will recover within a week or two, some people will develop life-threatening complications (like pneumonia) due to the virus. Each year, between 12,000 and 79,000 people die from influenza-related causes. But it could prevent a good portion of those deaths if more people got vaccinated.
2. Reduces emergency cases resulting from flu illness
During peak season, hospitals and urgent care centers can get overwhelmed with patients seeking treatment for influenza-related symptoms. One study found that getting vaccinated reduced the number of emergency department visits by 41 percent during the 2014-2015 influenza season. So not only does getting a shot help to protect you from getting sick, but it also helps reduce the burden on our healthcare system—which is especially important during a pandemic.
3. It helps with herd Immunity
When enough people are vaccinated against a virus, it’s harder for the virus to spread. This, in turn, protects those who can’t get vaccinated (like infants and people with certain medical conditions). This is known as herd immunity, and it’s one of the most important reasons to get vaccinated.
4. The vaccine changes yearly
The vaccine composition is reviewed every year and sometimes changes to keep up with the current strains of the virus. Even if you got the influenza shot last year, you need to get it again this year to be protected.
5. Getting the shot sooner, protects you longer
While it’s better to get the influenza shot late than never, getting it earlier in the season offers many benefits. For one, you’ll be protected against the virus for a longer period. And if everyone gets vaccinated early on, it can help prevent a sudden influx of cases later in the season.
6. Side effects are typically rare and mild
Most people who get the influenza shot don’t experience any side effects. And for those who do, the side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days. The most common side effects are soreness, redness, swelling at the injection site, headache, fever, and muscle aches. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
So there you have it—six of the best reasons to get a flu shot every year. Remember, influenza is a serious virus that can cause life-threatening complications in some people. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the virus. Therefore, make sure to get your shot this year.
