Immediately following back-to-school comes flu season, which, in the Pacific Northwest, can last from late fall through early spring. Making sure each member of your family gets an updated flu shot is critical to staying healthy and protected against the latest strain, especially as the season goes on. Learn about the benefits of getting your annual flu shot earlier in the season!

Extra time for your immune system to adjust

Your body is not immune to the flu immediately after getting vaccinated: the shot takes about two weeks to boost your immune system. Your body needs that time to figure out what the virus is and how to properly fight against and defeat it. By waiting, you are risking possible exposure to the virus before you are immune during the peak of the season.  Depending on the latest strain, you may want to inquire about early and late season flu shots to re-up your immunity and protect against other strains making their way through our community. 

Less of a wait

The CDC recommends that people receive flu shots before the end of October for adequate protection during peak flu season. By visiting our clinic for a flu shot early in the season, you will be able to beat the lines that can build during the recommended window at retail clinics or your primary care provider’s office. You can also bundle your flu shot with a school, sports or employment physical for higher efficiency. 

Peace of mind

Time off is a valuable resource, and you don’t want to waste all of your sick days on a nasty bout of the flu. Symptoms include fever, nausea, headache, chills and congestion, all of which can lead to discomfort if you need to stay home from work or school or have to spend your weekend in bed. 

Preventing further complications and health issues

The influenza virus can lead to a number of serious health risks in people of all ages. In addition to preventing hospitalizations in nearly 100,000 patients annually, the flu vaccination can reduce complications in individuals experiencing problems with their cardiac health as well as pregnant women. The shot can also help save the lives of children, who can experience further complications due to undeveloped immune systems. 

Walk-In Flu Vaccinations in Southcenter, Kent & SeaTac, Washington

If you are interested in getting your flu shot before the season really takes off, visit AFC Urgent Care Southcenter today! We will be able to provide you with the vaccination for the current strain of flu, offering you protection after the initial two weeks. For questions about the flu shot, please call 425-970-8117