Protecting yourself from the flu | The Learning Key

Flu-fighting Facts

The flu is nothing to sneeze at. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza has resulted in between 9.2 million and 35.6 million illnesses annually. The CDC says, is for everyone who is eligible and at least 6 months old to get a flu shot as soon as the vaccine becomes available.

To help, all CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic rentals have the vaccine available.

Study Shows

That can be done, since the annual survey, conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of CVS Pharmacy, found that two-thirds of those surveyed get a flu vaccine every year or plan to get this year, a 5 percent increase from last year.

One reason so many are flocking to the knowledge of the last year of the year that they have had the highest levels of knowledge in the world. season makes them more likely to get a flu shot this year. 27 percent of parents of children under 18 years of age, 26 percent say they are more likely to get their children vaccinated this year year's flu season.

The percentage who got vaccinated at a pharmacy stayed at 22 percent, but the percentage of those who got vaccinated at their workplace fell by 22 percent to 15 percent while those who got vaccinated by a health care professional rose from 44 percent to 48 percent.

The survey also found that doctors' opinions (39 percent), where insurance is accepted (38 percent), and convenience (33 percent) rank among the top three factors in determining where to go for the shot. The flu vaccine is a preventative under the Affordable Care Act, so it's fully covered and available at no cost through most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B.

Nurse's Advice

"Angela Patterson, Chief Nurse Practitioner Officer at MinuteClinic, said:" Surprising to many, it can actually be used for immunity to build immunity. "Because of this, CVS Pharmacy recommends patients get their flu shot as soon as possible. Furthermore, influenza strains tend to change each year, so it's very important to get vaccinated annually to make sure you are protected. "

What Else You Can Do? Here are four suggestions:

1. Stay home if you're sick. The survey found that they would have had flu-like symptoms. In fact, flu-like symptoms have been reported in the general population: 28 percent have gone to the supermarket, 12 percent have picked up a child from school or day care, and 10 percent have taken public transportation.

2. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based cleansing gel.

3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

4. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs. – (NAPS)