It’s Not Too Late To Get Your Flu Shot
Flu cases begin picking up in late October, but it’s not too late to get your influenza vaccination now. The shot will still protect you through winter, when flu cases peak, and give you some future immunity too.
We often use the term casually, but the flu can cause serious health effects.
Most people recover from the flu within about a week, but some can develop complications, such as pneumonia and sepsis, which can be lethal or life-altering. You might be surprised to know that the flu can affect nearly every part of the body. It can lead to heart concerns, neurological complications, muscle inflammation and more.
The World Health Organization estimates the flu kills up to 650,000 people (about half the population of Hawaii) annually. While most cases are not this serious, protecting yourself is important.
The flu shot has proven to be a safe and effective way to prevent illness.
The vaccine is updated yearly to protect you against flu strains that are commonly circulating. Within two weeks after vaccination, your body creates antibodies that can protect you against these strains and reduce the serious effects of other strains. While there are rare cases of side effects at the injection site, the shot itself cannot give you the flu or make you more susceptible to it.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the flu vaccine, or other recommended adult vaccinations.
Dr. Mundy is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician specializing in Family Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio, TX. She completed her residency at the Family Health Centers of San Diego, CA. Dr. Mundy holds credentials in Integrative Medicine and certification from the American Academy of HIV. She is a global health advocate and has served as a medical volunteer in Argentina, Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras. A native English speaker, she is also fluent in Spanish, reading, writing, and speaking the language.