No one wants to get the flu. From the body aches to the fever, this illness takes quite a toll. And if you’re over the age of 65, things can get even more serious — potentially even life-threatening.
The good news? There’s an easy, proven way to protect yourself against this illness. Each year, researchers work diligently to develop a vaccine that specifically fights this year’s strain(s) of influenza (a.k.a., the flu). By getting this shot, you can dramatically reduce your risk of getting the flu — and, more importantly, of being hospitalized.
Whether you have an upcoming wellness visit or you want to pop in for this key vaccine on its own, now’s the time. With flu season coming up soon, getting your shot now goes a long way. Fortunately, Dr. Hector Fabregas and our team at Healthstone Primary Care offer this vaccine from the convenience of our offices in Weston, Davie, and Pembroke Pines, Florida.
Is the flu shot really that important? That depends, to a large extent, on your age and current health status.
People over 65 and those who are immunocompromised should absolutely get this vaccination. Doing so slashes your odds of getting the flu by 40–60%. And if you’re in a group that’s at risk for flu complications, that means you can cut your likelihood of a life-threatening illness in half.
No matter your age or health, you’ll be following health experts’ guidance if you get this vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends it for everyone over 6 months old.
Since flu season usually peaks in February, you might think you have plenty of time to get the shot. But time is actually of the essence. Flu cases usually start picking up in October.
Plus, the flu shot doesn’t deliver immediate immunity. Instead, it takes about two weeks for your body to develop the antibodies that defend against influenza. That means taking action now gives your body ample time to use the formula of the vaccine to lower your risk of sickness.
In fact, the CDC specifically recommends getting vaccinated in September or October for the 2023–2024 flu season.
While getting your flu shot at any time in the flu season can be helpful, if you want your best shot at avoiding influenza, act now. Getting your flu shot in the next few weeks means your body has ample time to build immunity against this year’s strains of the flu virus.
To schedule your flu shot, call our office nearest you or book your visit online today.
