Influenza is a serious illness that can lead to fatal complications. Influenza is most commonly known as the flu. Each flu season, millions of people will contract the flu. Among these millions of people, several hundreds of thousands of them will be hospitalized. Although it is not as common, thousands of people die from the flu each year. In order to prevent these unfortunate circumstances, the Food and Drug Administration recommends that each person over the age of 6 months gets the flu vaccination each year. If you or your loved ones haven’t gotten flu shots already, please schedule an appointment today. However, if you are hesitant about getting the flu shot: don’t worry! We will explore all of the benefits of flu shots below.
Illness Prevention
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during the years of 2016 and 2017, the flu vaccine prevented more than 5 million people from obtaining the flu. In addition to this, flu shots also prevented more than 2 million flu related visits at physicians’ offices located throughout the entire country. Flu shots have been predicted to reduce the risk of needing to go to the doctor during flu season by 60%. Once you decide to get the flu shot, you will be protected from the flu and other flu related virus strains.
Reduce Severity of Illnesses
The flu vaccination has been proven to reduce the severity of illness in people who have been vaccinated, but still contract an illness. A person who hasn’t been vaccinated typically spends an average of 8 days in the hospital. A person who has been vaccinated spends about 4 days in the hospital.
Provides Protection to Pregnant Women
If you are pregnant, it is highly recommended that you get the flu shot. If you choose to get the flu shot while pregnant, your chances of getting the flu will decrease by 50%. Also, getting the flu shot while pregnant can protect the fetus during prenatal and postnatal care. After getting the shot during pregnancy, the baby will be protected from the flu several months after birth.
The Bottom Line
Everyone should be vaccinated with the flu shot. Influenza is an infectious disease that has already claimed the lives of too many worthy individuals. Please save yourself from expensive visits to the doctor and get vaccinated today! Our friendly staff members at Southside Medical Center in Atlanta will be more than happy to assist you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!