Influenza can affect anyone– even healthy children and adults. Flu season typically picks up around October and can peak between December and February. Influenza is a potentially serious disease that can lead to hospitalization in some cases. Certain groups of people may be at a higher risk to flu-related complications. Continue reading to learn who is at a greater risk for flu, and how to best prevent illness for yourself and your community. Visit AFC Urgent Care North Bergen for your flu shot and general illness treatment today.

High-Risk Groups for Flu Complications

High-risk groups for the flu are people that are more inclined to develop severe flu symptoms, potentially leading to hospitalization and, in some cases, death. If you fit into any of the below groups, you should seek to acquire a flu shot early on. Flu shots are now available at AFC Urgent Care North Bergen– simply visit the walk-in clinic today to obtain your flu shot. Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu illness.

High-risk groups for flu complications include:

• Adults 65 years and older
• Children younger than 5 years old
• Pregnant women
• Patients with weak immune systems
• Patients with underlying chronic conditions

Who should get a flu shot?

At AFC Urgent Care North Bergen, we provide flu vaccination to patients aged six months old and up. Flu prevention is as easy as a simple vaccination. The vaccine boosts your immunity against the virus and protects both you and your loved ones from illness. Although the flu shot isn’t a full guarantee against contracting influenza, it’s your best chance to stay healthy throughout the year.

AFC Urgent Care North Bergen specializes in family urgent care, so you can bring your entire family into the walk-in clinic to get vaccinated against the flu. We recommend that patients who have previously experienced an adverse reaction to a flu shot or have an egg allergy to consult with their provider about alternative methods of flu prevention. Traditional flu shots contain egg products, but there are other varieties of flu vaccination that are safe for those with allergies.

How do flu vaccinations protect me against symptoms?

The flu shot works by using a weakened strain of the current influenza virus to help your body build immunity to the disease. Influenza strains change annually, which means that you’ll need the vaccine to protect against common flu symptoms. There are a few, subtle side effects to a flu shot, including minimal arm swelling, soreness, and discomfort for a few days after the shot. However, flu symptoms are much worse than flu shot side-effects. 

Getting a seasonal flu shot prevents symptoms such as:

• Coughing
• Congestion
• Runny Nose
• Fatigue
• Muscle Soreness
• Fever

If you’re in a high-risk group for flu-related complications, these symptoms could be even more severe. If you’re experiencing consistent and severe symptoms, medical attention from your healthcare provider is necessary.

Flu Shots & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care North Bergen

AFC North Bergen is open every day of the week, making weekend flu vaccination and treatment accessible when you need it. Don’t leave your health up to chance and let your symptoms get the best of you this fall and winter. If you fit into one of the high-risk groups, you should come to the clinic as early as possible for your flu shot. Visit our urgent care center with no appointment necessary. Call now for more information at (201) 588-1300.