Each year, the flu affects millions of people and can lead to serious illness, especially in children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Knowing the facts about the flu, especially how to recognize symptoms and when to get your flu shot, is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones.
What is the flu?
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, the throat and sometimes the lungs. The flu is most common in the winter months and is one of the most common infectious diseases overall.
How do I know if I have the flu?
Some symptoms of the flu include, but are not limited to:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle or body aches
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Runny Nose
- Chills
If you think you may have the flu, it is best to make an appointment with your primary care physician or visit us at one of our urgent care centers to get tested for the flu. Once you are tested, you can work with your provider to find the best plan to help you fight the flu.
What is the best way to prevent myself from getting the flu?
The best way to prevent yourself from getting the flu is by getting the flu vaccination each year. The CDC recommends everyone over 6 months old should get the flu shot. The CDC also says that a yearly flu vaccine is the first and most important action in reducing your likelihood of getting the flu.
What is a flu shot?
A flu shot is a vaccine that helps protect you from getting the flu. The flu shot is known to have many benefits, including reducing the chance of you getting the flu. The flu shot is made from inactive (killed) influenza virus particles. This means that the flu shot cannot cause you to get the flu because the particles are inactive.
Most people have a sore arm at the injection site for a day or two after the vaccination. Some people may develop a fever or mild body aches, but this is not the flu. This is your immune system responding to the vaccine and building immunity.
Why is fall the best time to get a flu shot?
Most people get the flu between October and early spring. After you receive the vaccination, it takes about two weeks for the antibodies to develop in your body to protect you from the flu. It is best to get the vaccine before flu season kicks into full gear because the longer you wait, the higher the chance you have of getting the flu. But even if you don’t get the flu shot in the fall, the saying “better late than never” rings true. It’s never too late to get vaccinated.
Do I need a flu shot if I’ve already gotten the flu?
If you’ve already been diagnosed with and recovered from the flu, you can still get sick from the flu again since multiple strains come each year. So, it’s important to still get your flu shot as soon as you’re able. Again, it’s never too late.
Where can I get a flu shot?
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group gives the flu shot at all of its primary care locations, as well as some specialty offices. You can book an appointment with your doctor. If you don’t have a doctor, many of our providers are accepting new patients and would be happy to assist you., so you can find a doctor who best suits your needs.