Flu season runs between the Fall and Winter months – from November to March. Cases typically peak in December and February, so there is still time to protect yourself this season. The CDC has estimated that the 2019-2020 flu season had about 38 million cases and 22,000 deaths. There is never a wrong time to get a flu shot, and the sooner you get one, the sooner you are protected from contracting the virus. AFC Urgent Care Methuen offers flu shots to patients starting at six months of age. Visit us today to get yours.

Who should get a flu shot?

Anyone older than six months should receive a flu shot. Not only will this protect yourself, but it will also protect those around you. Pregnant women, anyone over the age of 65, or those who are at risk of complications from the flu should receive their flu shot as soon as possible if they have not already. Anyone who works with any of these groups of people should also get their flu shot as quickly as possible. If you have had allergic reactions to flu shots in the past or have a severe egg allergy, our trained physicians will help you determine the best flu vaccination.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Symptoms of the flu can vary from mild to severe. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms to see if they are getting worse, not better. Flu symptoms show up one to three days after infection and will be at their worst initially. They will gradually get better with time, like any other illness. You can be contagious with the flu one day before symptoms show up. Symptoms include:

• Fever, with or without body aches/chills
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose

The flu is contagious for seven days after the initial symptoms start. It’s important to avoid other people as much as possible and wash your hands frequently. There is no cure for the flu, but getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated will help move the process along. There are OTC medications such as ibuprofen that may help with symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms and a loss of taste or smell, it’s important to get a COVID test.

Why should I get a flu shot?

Getting a flu shot will help prevent you from getting the flu. On the chance that you do still catch the flu even after receiving the vaccine, your symptoms will be much less severe. The flu shot protects you against the four strains of the flu. Getting a flu shot will also help others around you not to catch the flu. With the second wave of COVID happening, keeping hospital beds open is extremely important for healthcare professionals. Visit our clinic today to get your flu shot.