Influenza is a common, and sometimes dangerous, a respiratory infection. That’s why healthcare providers recommend the annual flu vaccine for their adult patients, especially those 65 and older. If you need a flu shot, you can walk into our clinic to receive one at your earliest convenience. Meanwhile, here are some facts to know about flu shots for adults.
Fact #1 The Flu Shot Not Only Helps Prevent Infection but Also Dangerous Complications
If you are 65 or older and/or have serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, or asthma, a flu shot is a must. Not only can it protect against fever, body aches, chills, and congestion common to flu infections, but vaccines help prevent pneumonia and other potentially fatal conditions which may develop with the flu. Sadly, influenza takes the lives of more than 50,000 Americans annually.
Fact #2 Flu Shots Should Be Updated Annually
Medical experts formulate flu vaccines that protect against the four strains of the flu virus likely to be the most prominent for that flu season–usually from the fall through the winter months. Each year, the prevalent strains of viruses change. So, the shot formulation changes yearly and must be administered again to eligible patients.
Fact #3 Flu Vaccine Nasal Sprays Are Available
Do you dislike getting shots? You may be a candidate for a flu vaccine administered as a nasal spray. Check with your primary care physician to determine if this is an option for you. In general, people between the ages of 2 and 50 years old may be eligible to receive flu protection with a comfortable spray.
Fast Fact #5 Reactions to the Flu Vaccine Are Minimal
In fact, flu shots are known to be safe and effective for generally healthy people. Most adults have little to no reaction to their immunizations. However, some may have very mild flu symptoms or local reactions, such as injection site soreness and redness.
Fast Fact #6 The Flu Shot Is Effective
While no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing infection, influenza vaccines offer up to a 60% reduction in your chances of developing influenza. Even if you do get sick, your risk of severe infection decreases as well.
Fast Fact #7 There Are Special Senior Flu Shots
These vaccines are available in higher doses than standard shots. If you are 65 or older, check with your PCP to determine if a senior flu vaccine is appropriate for you.
Fast Fact #8 The Flu Shot for Adults Does Not Protect Against COVID-19 Illness
The two illnesses and their causative agents are completely different. As such, you should receive the flu shot and a separate COVID-19 vaccine for maximum protection. In fact, you can receive both immunizations at the same time.
Fast Fact #9 You Are Considered Fully Protected Within a Couple of Weeks
Flu vaccines trigger a powerful immune response in your body, and it happens relatively quickly. Within 2 weeks of receiving your shot, you will be well-protected against illness. However, be sure to stay safe by avoiding crowds and washing your hands frequently.
Flu Shots for Adults at Your Urgent Care Center
At Patient Care Now Urgent Care in Fairless Hills, PA, our healthcare providers deliver flu shots on a walk-in basis. For your convenience, we are open 7 days a week.
Call us for more information about this year’s flu shots for adults at (267) 202-6433.
