According to Harvard Health Publications, “In the United States alone, 36 thousand people die and more than 200 thousand are hospitalized each year because of the flu.” It’s nearing the time of year when protecting your body against germs is important. It’s no wonder sicknesses start popping up when students return to school. In order to keep yourself and your loved ones free from sickness this year, hygiene is very important as well as getting the dreaded flu shot.
Although flu shots can be painful, they are well worth the initial sting. Flu vaccines are designed to build the immune system up by exposing your body to inactive versions of the past flu. Nurse, Pam Cinadr, says “Even though most of you [students] have a good immune system and you can fight it off, it helps if you build up your immune system against those certain types of flu viruses.”
Since flu shots are not required to attend school, many people skip the shot. Many do not recommend skipping the shot this year, as live versions of the virus are no longer offered. It is best to get the flu shot early in the season because it often does not defer sickness until two weeks after the shot is administered.
It is encouraged to get a flu shot because they can protect you and those around you from getting ill. Children and elderly people contract viruses easily and their consequences are often more severe. According to cdc.gov, “A 2014 study showed that flu vaccine reduced children’s risk of flu-related pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission by 74% during flu seasons from 2010-2012.” It is important to keep yourself healthy for others to maintain their health as well.
Flu vaccines very rarely have severe side effects. Most people are recommended to get a flu shot if they are free from allergies to previous flu shots. As the live nasal virus is no longer an option, the viruses are not intended to contract the individual with a live virus. Thus, there is no reason to fear getting ill from receiving the vaccination.
Flu shots are easily administered at local doctors offices as well as stores. They come at a low cost and are accessible by nearly everybody. It is suggested that everyone get a shot to protect those individuals with compromised immune systems.
Samina Abdullah • Oct 6, 2016 at 5:10 pm
Like every other year, this winter is bound to cause illness! I think along with the flu shot it is important that people are washing their hands frequently and avoiding sharing germs. People should also think about eating healthy and exercising on a regular basis because these two activities help your immune system and body stay in the best shape.