Is the Flu Vaccine Right for You?

Many people think they do not need a flu vaccine. If you are one of those people, here are several well-documented reasons for scheduling an appointment this flu season:

• Influenza is nothing to sneeze at: Influenza and pneumonia are the eighth-leading cause of death in the United States.
• The flu is expensive. A bad case of the flu can last for days, even weeks, causing fever, chills, headache, cough and sore muscles. If you are a parent and spread the virus to your kids, expect to miss work even longer while caring for them. And if a hospital stay is required, your out-of-pocket costs will skyrocket.
• The flu can put people you love at risk. Even if you are convinced you “never get the flu,” your decision to forgo immunization could put elderly parents, grandparents, neighbors or co-workers at risk. If you don’t get immunized to protect yourself, consider your role in protecting those who might get sick by being around you.
• Flu vaccine is completely safe and effective. Despite myths to the contrary, it is impossible to get the flu from a flu vaccine. When you get vaccinated, you help your entire community stay safe and flu-free.

One common excuse that people cite when wanting to avoid a flu shot is the justifiable fear of needles. These days, there are several “shot-free” options for the flu vaccine, including an intranasal spray and the intradermal microinjection system that even needle-phobics say is virtually painless.

Call your healthcare provider today to schedule your flu vaccination and halt the spread of this deadly disease.