Believe it or not, we are already heading into the cold and flu season for 2023 and 2024. It seems like only yesterday we were talking about influenza and the flu vaccine! We are already starting to see a rise in cases across the country.

Because of that, it is time to start talking about the flu vaccine! Getting your flu vaccine early in the season offers you the most comprehensive protection all year.

Stop by AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road any day of the week for your flu shot! We explain more about the benefits of the flu show below, so read on to refresh your memory.

Is the Flu Shot the Same as Last Year?

Nope! The flu shot gets reformulated every year based on data and current predictions about what strains will be circulating each season. Using that data, they are able to create a vaccine that will help protect you all season. There are nine different flu vaccines available for the season, including some high-dose versions for our more vulnerable populations like older adults or immunocompromised people.

The flu shot is historically up to 60% effective at preventing the flu, and these vaccines are already proving to be just as effective. Getting your flu shot in September or October is recommended. That’s because it takes about two weeks to develop the antibodies you need to fight the real infection, so you want to give your body as much time as possible before cases start to rise quickly in our community.

Signs You Have the Flu

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Congestion
• Body aches
• Cough

What’s in the Flu Vaccine?

While the flu vaccine ingredients change a bit every year with the reformulation, the science behind it doesn’t change. The vaccine contains deactivated strains of the flu virus to help your body learn about the virus and create antibodies to fight the real infection. It is important to remember that the flu vaccine cannot give you influenza.

What it can give you, however, are the antibodies you need to help keep you healthy. The flu vaccine can help you avoid infection entirely, or it can significantly shorten the duration of your illness if you do get sick. Come see us for your flu shot today!

Top Reasons Why an Annual Flu Shot Matters

• It reduces serious respiratory illness.
• It is updated every year for the best protection.
• It could save your life.
• It protects your family from exposure.

If you are wondering if your recent illness is the flu, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road.