Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot

With flu season quickly approaching and the COVID-19 pandemic still upon us, it is even more important to get your flu shot to lessen the chance of getting sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between three and eleven percent of the U.S. population is affected by the flu each year. Though some lucky individuals are unaffected, taking the proper precautions and getting the flu shot can decrease your chance of getting sick.

Common flu symptoms include coughing, sore throat, sinus congestion, headaches, and body aches. The symptoms can easily keep one bedridden for a week or longer. Though getting the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, it can reduce the risk of illness and hospitalization, meaning the healthcare resources needed to care for COVID-19 patients are available for those in need.

There are many reasons to get a flu shot every year, including:

A flu shot can actually save your life. The flu can sometimes cause serious complications that could require hospitalization. This includes dehydration, ear infections, sinus infections, and the worsening of a chronic illness. Each year, approximately 20,000 people are hospitalized because of the flu. In some drastic cases, the flu can even lead to death. Getting a flu shot annually is more beneficial than you may think!

Getting a flu shot can save your sick days. If you catch the flu and need to take time off to heal and recuperate, it costs you and your employer. If you don't get sick, you can save your sick days for a time you need them more!

There are needle-free options. Are you or your child afraid of needles? In recent years, a needle-free flu vaccine was developed. People between the age of 2 and 49 can use a nasal spray that includes the vaccine. In addition, there is an intradermal shot that has a very tiny needle that you can barely feel!

There are flu shots specially made for older adults. Most of the population gets the regular flu shot that is formulated for anyone over six months of age. There is also a version created for people age 65 and older, giving them better protection against the flu.

The possible side effects are mild. There are very few potential side effects from getting the flu shot. These include headaches, stuffy noses, or sore throats. Many do not experience any side effects but the ones who do, they only last for a couple days. Compared to the week or more of flu symptoms, the possible side effects are a better alternative.

The flu shot helps with "herd immunity." The concept of herd immunity refers to the idea that if we all get immunizations, we can't spread the virus, so we are all protected. The flu virus spreads easily so getting a flu shot every year will help lessen the spread and keep everyone you come in contact with protected.

If you're located in the Midland and Odessa, TX area and are searching for a flu clinic to visit, choose WesTex Urgent Care! We have three locations in Midland and Odessa to best serve you. Our team can get you in and out quickly, making getting the flu shot an easy venture! For more information, please don't hesitate to contact our flu clinic today.

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