There is never a bad time to get a flu shot. With flu season quickly approaching, and the dangers of a second wave of COVID-19, the best time to get a flu shot is as soon as possible. Flu season falls between the fall and winter months, so it is recommended to have your flu shot by the end of October. The biggest concern for this flu season in combination with the COVID-19 outbreak is hospitalization. Hospitals will already be overrun from the second wave of COVID patients, so it’s imperative to minimize the chance of hospitalizations from the flu.
At AFC Urgent Care in Dedham, you can receive your flu shot at any point without making an appointment. We have wait times that are less than 15 minutes and offer affordable rates.
Who should get the flu shot this year?
The CDC recommends that anyone over 6 months of age should receive their flu shot. This not only helps you from catching the flu, but it helps prevent the spread to those who may be at higher risk of hospitalization from the flu. There are specific flu shots depending on the age group, and the vaccine is safe for most women who are pregnant. Infants less than 6 months old and those who are allergic to ingredients in the vaccine are recommended to not receive the flu shot. If you or a loved one qualify for either of these criteria, you should consult with a healthcare provider for other options.
When should I get the flu shot?
As mentioned earlier, the best time to get your flu shot is by the end of October. However, there is no wrong time to get your flu shot. It is recommended to get the flu shot annually to help protect you throughout the duration of flu season. The shot starts working about two weeks after receiving it and will continue to keep you protected for about 6 months – the typical duration of flu season. If you are frequently around the elderly, small children, or those at higher risk, you should receive your flu shot as soon as possible.
Why should I get a flu shot?
Not only will the flu shot help you not catch the flu, but on the off chance you do, it can also help minimize your symptoms. Some rare and severe cases of the flu require hospitalization, but receiving your flu shot ahead of time can make the effects less severe. The flu shot changes yearly, to counteract any changes to the flu itself. This is why it is recommended to get the flu shot once per year. The flu shot will not protect you from COVID-19, however. While the viruses share many symptoms, they are not the same and you should still practice social distancing while wearing a mask that covers your mouth and nose.
