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It is not too late to get vaccinated against the flu.
Even though the flu season usually starts around now, the vaccine will protect you after about two weeks. The season usually culminates in January or February and ends in May.
The flu has hospitalized and killed more Americans last winter than any seasonal flu for decades. More than 900,000 people have landed at the hospital. More than 80,000 people died, far exceeding the previous record of 56,000 registered for the influenza season in the last 30 years.
Hospitalizations and deaths were mainly among people aged 65 and over. As people age, their immune systems weaken and their ability to protect themselves from disease decreases. In addition, the flu virus can lead to complications for people who already have chronic health problems.
The heavy toll of last year underscores the importance of being vaccinated against the flu as quickly as possible. The blow can prevent infections and reduce the severity of the complications of the disease.
If you are enrolled in Medicare Part B, your flu vaccine will not cost you anything until your doctor, health clinic or pharmacy agrees to charge you more than Medicare pays. There is no deductible or quota.
If you were vaccinated last year, you will still need a vaccine this year because your immunity to the flu virus fades after one year. In addition, virus types usually change from season to season. As a result, new vaccines are being manufactured each year to combat what scientists believe to be the most common strains of the season.
If you have questions about the best flu vaccination option, talk to your doctor or other health professional.
Despite the risk posed by the flu and its complications, the vaccination rate remains well below what it should be. Even during last year's horrible season, less than half of the American population has been vaccinated.
Why? Some people do not understand that the flu can be serious and put their lives in danger. Therefore, they do not think that a flu shot is worth their time and effort. Others are resistant to annual vaccination because they believe it poses risks, even though decades of experience have shown that influenza vaccines are safe.
If you are concerned about a serious allergic reaction or other condition that may make the influenza vaccine unsafe for you, talk to your doctor before you get vaccinated. Otherwise, it is important to remember that you can not get the flu shot.
Side effects are rare. Most people do not notice anything after their vaccination. Some may have a slight fever or slight pain at the spot where the shot was given.
As you approach the flu season, you will want to wash your hands and stay away from sick people to reduce the spread of germs. But as useful as these steps are, annual vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Bob Moos is the Southwestern Public Affairs Officer of the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.
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