Flu season is on the way, and it’s time to get the flu shot to protect yourself and your family from serious illness, Intermountain Health experts say.
Flu typically makes you feel rotten for three to five days. But it can be more serious for young children, older adults, and others with certain health conditions.
The influenza (flu) vaccine helps lower your risk of catching the flu and can reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. Because flu viruses change from year to year, it’s important for everyone ages 6 months and older to get vaccinated every fall.
“Getting a flu shot is the simplest and most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from influenza,” said Karen Funk, MD, Intermountain Health senior medical director for primary care. “You may have heard about the difficulty of getting a dose of some respiratory vaccines, but that is not the case with influenza vaccine. Flu vaccine administration is ‘business as usual,’ and you should be able to easily get a flu vaccine wherever you have been used to getting it in the past.”
Who Should Get a Flu Shot?
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions. Annual flu shots are especially important for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions who may be at higher risk for flu-related complications.
Annual flu shots are covered by most health insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider for any restrictions. Flu vaccination also is often available at no or low cost to people who do not have insurance.
Where Can I Get a Flu Shot?
• Flu Shot Clinics: Intermountain Health offers flu shots in Grand Junction and metro Denver areas. Visit Intermountainhealth.org/flu to find a location near you. Some locations accept walk-ins, while others require an appointment or that you call ahead, so it’s best to check before you go.
• Primary Care Provider: You can also visit your primary care provider’s office to schedule a flu shot, or simply ask to receive your flu vaccine at your next scheduled visit.
• Pharmacies or Local Health Departments: Many pharmacies and county health departments also provide flu shots, often with extended evening or weekend hours for your convenience.
“There are several different versions of the flu vaccines, from shots to nasal mist, along with formulations for older adults,” Dr. Funk said. “Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for the right version for you.”
What Else Can I Do to Stop the Spread of Disease?
The same prevention methods work to protect the spread of most respiratory viruses:
• Keep up to date on all of your vaccinations.
• Wash your hands often and well, and have children do the same.
• Cover your sneezes and coughs.
• Use a tissue once, then throw it away and wash your hands.
• If you’re sick, stay home from school or work. Wear a mask, and make sure it covers your nose and mouth snuggly.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible.
For information on influenza or flu shots, see www.intermountainhealth.org/flu or see your primary care doctor.
