Information About the Flu Shot

It is that time of the year again. Everyone seems to be calling their doctor's office to set up an appointment for their annual flu shot. Doctors recommend that you get a flu shot every year, because the flu virus keeps changing. Records show that 10% to 20% of Americans get the flu virus every year.

Influenza (also called "the flu") is a viral infection in the nose, throat and lungs. Most people go in for their flu shot in the fall, right before "flu season" hits. The flu season usually runs from November through April, with December, January and February being the worst months. By getting the flu shot, it helps your body get ready to defend itself against the virus.

The flu may cause fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and tiredness. You may also experience some pain in the area where you received the shot. Some people describe the flu as being like the worst cold of their life. The flu lasts in the body an average of 1 to 2 weeks. It ranks as one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season.

Little kids, between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, need to get a flu shot. Kids also need the flu shot if they live with someone who could get very sick if they get the flu. This includes pregnant women and kids and grownups who have any of the health problems listed above. People older than 65 also should be protected from the flu, and should get a flu shot yearly as well.

If there happens to be a shortage of the flu vaccine, health experts set up a "priority system". This means that those who are in danger of getting the flu, get their shots first, and everyone else will receive theirs later.

There are some things you can do to help you feel a little better if you do get the flu. For the aches and pains, you can take a fever reducer/pain reliever. Be sure and drink lots of liquids to prevent dehydration and get lots of bed rest

The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get the influenza vaccine each fall, before the flu season. The flu season usually lasts from November to April, with December, January and February being the worst months for the virus. Some people who get the vaccine will still get the flu, but they will usually get a milder case than people who aren't vaccinated.