The flu season for 2022–2023 has officially begun, and instances are being reported locally and statewide. Based on what Australia has already gone through and the fact that there haven\’t been any significant flu seasons since the COVID-19 pandemic, experts have projected that this flu season in Texas will be particularly bad. According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Texas is one of five states with a high rate of influenza in the week ending October 8.
This requires urgent action, so people should consider getting a flu shot ASAP. The flu, often known as influenza, is a respiratory condition brought on by viruses that can affect the nose, throat, and, in more severe cases, the lungs. The worst thing about this virus is that it can spread from person to person through the air. With that in mind, here are a few well-known benefits of getting a flu shot.
It Helps with Herd Immunity
Herd immunity is a term used to describe the benefits of immunizing large populations. Of course, we can\’t spread the virus if we are all immunized. When an infected person coughs, talks, or sneezes, you can become ill if droplets enter the mouth or nose.
Therefore, you must get vaccinated against the flu to protect yourself and the rest of the community. Ultimately, the more the number of people who get a flu shot, the better we will be protected from influenza as a community.
Flu Shot Changes Every Year
The CDC forecasts which influenza strains are most likely to emerge each year before the start of the flu season. Of course, the previous year\’s vaccine can still lower your risk of getting some virus strains, and if you do get sick, it can dramatically lessen the intensity of your symptoms.
However, getting a flu shot for the latest strain is a far better option. Ultimately, the strain changes every year so does the flu shot!
It will Help Reduce Sick Days
According to the CDC, the flu causes 111 million missed workdays and nearly $7 billion in lost productivity yearly. It will cost you and your company money whether you stay in the hospital or take some time off to recover at home. However, if you get your flu shot on time, you can drastically reduce the number of sick days you have to take.
It Can Save Your Life
Dehydration, the deterioration of chronic conditions, bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, and sinus infections are just a few of the major problems that the flu can lead to. These medical conditions typically require hospitalization in most cases.
However, severe instances of influenza can result in death. According to the CDC, around 34,200 people died between 2018 and 2019 due to the flu alone. So, getting a flu shot can be the difference between life and death for some people.
Wrapping Up
Influenza has the ability to make young, healthy people unwell and even cause death in more severe cases. In fact, it has a higher death rate than COVID-19. So, getting your flu shot on time is a no-brainer. Ultimately, it will allow you to reduce your sick days and live a healthy, flu-free life for the foreseeable future.
For more information about flu shots and vaccinations, contact Health Once Family Medicine by calling (469)262-5762 or visiting https://www.healthonemedicine.com/.