Take care of your health: Prevent the flu

Influenza is a highly contagious disease that can occur in children or adults of any age. In the US, the peak of the influenza season is estimated between November and April, but people should start getting vaccinated soon after vaccination against the virus to protect as many people as possible before the start of the flu season. the flu season. However, as long as the influenza virus circulates in the community, it's never too late to get vaccinated. Do not worry about getting the vaccine too soon as it will protect you all season long.

Influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone except those younger than six months of age. It is recommended that mothers of infants under six months of age be vaccinated against influenza to protect the infant through what is called passive immunity. Adults over 65 years of age may benefit from the higher dose vaccine. After further research and design adjustment, the nasal spray vaccine is back as the recommended vaccination method this year.

For most people, the risk of complications from the vaccine is much lower than the risk of complications related to infection with the influenza virus itself. Minor side effects that may result from influenza vaccine include pain, redness or swelling at the injection site or mild fever. The vaccine is made from dead flu viruses and can not give you the flu. Even if you get the flu after receiving your flu shot, you'll be less likely to pass it because you've had the vaccine and you'll get it back faster. Very rarely, people can have severe allergic reactions to the flu vaccine. It is therefore important to talk to your doctor before receiving the vaccine.

If you have flu symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor or go to an emergency clinic as soon as possible. Cone Health has an exceptional network of primary care providers and emergency care facilities throughout the region.

Spokesperson's background:

Cynthia Snider, MD, is an Infectious Disease Specialist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Cone Health, and a member of the Cone Health Medical Group. She completed her medical degree at the University of Utah in 2005. Dr. Snider completed her residency degree in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Research at the University of Virginia. She is a member of the American Society of Infectious Diseases and the Society of Healthcare Epidemiology of America.