The Center for Disease Control estimates that 710,000 people were hospitalized with influenza A (flu) during the 2015-2016 season. It is a lot of misery as well as spending and time unnecessarily wasted. The flu vaccines would probably have prevented these hospitalizations and the millions of other influenza cases that have suffered at home.

"Seasonal influenza remains the leading cause of death from infectious disease in the United States," said David Blodgett, MD, MPH, director and chief health officer of Southwestern Utah's Department of Public Health. "The flu is the leading cause of job loss, economic loss, school absences and catch-up work."

Get the facts, not the flu

Influenza vaccines are usually available early in the fall and during the winter. The vaccine changes every year and a flu shot must be given every year to get the best protection possible. The influenza vaccine is very safe and is the most effective way to prevent or lessen the severity of influenza infection.

"Do not get vaccinated too soon," Blodgett warned. "An influenza vaccine given in July or August may not be effective throughout the flu season. On the other hand, it's never too late to get vaccinated. Flu cases appear throughout the winter. Mid-late September is usually the best time to get vaccinated. "

Have a clue, fight the flu.

The flu is very contagious. It can extend to other people up to six feet from an infected person by sneezing, coughing or just talking – even before symptoms manifest themselves. Wash your hands often during the flu season. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Cover cough and sneeze. And most importantly, stay home when he is sick so as not to infect others, especially those who are most susceptible to the flu.

"The populations most at risk for flu complications and hospitalizations are those over 65, the very young, and those who are immunocompromised," Blodgett said. "Babies under 6 months of age can not get the vaccine, but you're never too old to get the flu shot. High doses favoring a better immune response are available for people aged 50 to 65 years. An even higher dose is available for over 65s.

The shot for the flu is not everything for you

Some people are unable to get a flu shot. People with life-threatening allergies to vaccines or ingredients, people with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome, and infants under six months of age can not get a flu shot. These people have to rely on collective immunity, or the idea that when most people get vaccinated against the flu, it helps protect the entire population.

"Most people who have already contracted seasonal flu make an extra effort to get vaccinated every year," Blodgett said. "It's really so bad. Symptoms include high fever, body pain and sudden onset. If you do not care to please yourself, try your luck to those whose lives depend on your ability not to spread them. "

The flu ends with U

"The best way to prevent the flu and spread the disease is to get an annual flu shot," Blodgett said. "It's the most effective and most effective way of avoiding the flu."

Do not want to be sick? Get vaccinated quickly!

Influenza vaccines will be available at the Dixie Regional Center's LiVe Well Health Show on September 15 from 10 am to 2 pm in the second floor lobby. Fees may apply. Free with most insurance. Other screenings and health services will also be available. Self-guided tours of the new expanded hospital will also be held from Saturday 10 am to 7 pm.

Do not get caught without a shot

The Southwestern Utah Department of Public Health is holding its annual flu meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 25 at the Red Cliffs Mall in St. George. 8h-13h: Drive-to (18 years and older) in the parking lot. 12h-17h: Walk-in (families and all ages) inside the shopping center. $ 20 Free with proof of most insurance. Save time – download, print, complete and bring a consent form @ swuhealth.org

This LiVe Well column represents the collaboration between the medical professionals of the medical staff at our non-profit hospitals Intermountain Healthcare and The Spectrum & Daily News.

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