In Massachusetts, patients always need an updated flu virus since the state is densely populated, the weather is prime for the flu to spread, and because the flu can spread statewide pretty quickly! 

The good news for patients is that AFC Urgent Care Beverly has seasonal flu shots so you can get your vaccination ASAP! Without a vaccine, you may experience several missed days of school or personal time due to the virus. On average, it takes about one to two weeks for the flu to be treated for most patients. In extreme cases, the flu can sometimes take upwards of three weeks to treat. 

Across the state, influenza is a serious illness since it can impact several communities at once, spread to neighboring towns in a few days,and cause vulnerable patients to need hospital and emergency care services. Taking some proactive action and actively preventing the disease is a great way to remain healthy this fall, according to the Mass Gov Department of Public Health. 

Below, we’ll dive into some of the main reasons why patients need flu shots and how they can stay flu free this year! 

Why do I need a flu shot to prevent influenza?

The Mass Department of Public Health advises patients to get their flu shot as soon as a medical provider offers it due to a number of safety reasons. The following includes some critical examples of the need for a flu shot this season: 

“Every year in the United States, millions of people get the flu, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and thousands die from flu-related illnesses,” the Public Health Department said. 

“Some people are at higher risk of serious health problems when they get the flu, including pregnant women, infants, older adults, and people with medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, neurological and neuromuscular conditions, and weakened immune systems.” 

Early in the 2019-2020 flu season, the state has also confirmed a significant number of cases in a time as early as October. 

“Flu can be very serious,” Mass. Public Health continued via blog post. “The most common symptoms of the flu are fever, cough, and sore throat. Symptoms can also include body aches, headache, chills, runny nose and feeling very tired. Since the start of September, Massachusetts has had 82 lab-confirmed flu cases reported, well within the expected range for this time of year.” 

What are some basic prevention strategies against flu?

The main ways that public health officials and AFC Urgent Care Beverly advice for protecting against the flu includes: 

• Getting a flu shot ASAP 
• Coughing or sneezing into your elbow 
• Avoiding shared or public spaces with infected patients 
• Stay at home with any symptoms or fever 
• Wash your hands regularly throughout the day.