If you think you might not need a flu shot, that's a gamble you can choose to take. But do you want to take a chance with the health of loved ones?
"If you don't want one for yourself, think about the older and younger ones you are around," Nancy Howe, WIC director for the Seneca County General Health District, said.
That means you don't have to be a member of a high-risk group to make getting a shot a priority. Everyone who is at least 6 months of age should get a flu vaccine this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC states that especially applies to people who are among - or in contact with - people who:
Are at high risk of developing serious complications such as pneumonia if they get sick with the flu. This includes people who have certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease; pregnant women; and people 65 years of age and older.
Live with or care for others who are high risk of developing serious complications. This includes household contacts and caregivers of people with certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease.
The CDC reported this week flu season in the United States is off to its earliest start in nearly 10 years. And remember, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop and offer protection against the flu.
Fortunately, flu shots are inexpensive, often covered by insurance, Medicare or Medicaid, and readily available at pharmacies and through the health district. Don't give the flu a shot; get a flu shot.
