With peak flu season starting in early fall, it is time to start thinking about your plan to get the flu vaccine. The annual flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent the spread of the flu and reduce the chances of developing severe illness from the flu. However, you may be wondering why you have to get the vaccine every year. Keep reading to learn more about why you need to get the flu vaccine yearly.
If you’re in need of a flu shot, walk into AFC Waltham! Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week from 8am-8pm. We accept walk-in patients and maintain short wait times so that you can walk in when it’s convenient for you.
How the Flu Vaccine Works
The flu vaccine is an important preventative measure to take during the flu season. The flu is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It can cause severe illness, especially for anyone with a compromised immune system or underlying conditions. The flu shot aims to increase your body’s immunity to the flu to reduce the spread of the flu and reduce the risk of severe illness happening if you do catch the flu.
The flu vaccine works by introducing your body to the flu virus in a controlled way so that your immune system can build up the necessary antibodies. The reason that you need to get a flu shot every year is because the virus that causes the flu changes from year to year. Scientists and healthcare experts update the flu vaccine annually to ensure that you’re fully protected against the flu virus every year!
Who’s Eligible for the Flu Vaccine
Healthcare professionals recommend that everyone eligible for the flu shot gets one annually. This includes children over the age of 6 months in most cases. There are some cases where you may not be eligible for the flu vaccine. Severe egg allergies, previous reactions to the flu vaccine, or underlying conditions such as a compromised immune system can all cause someone to be ineligible for the flu vaccine. If you have concerns about your eligibility, contact your healthcare provider to review your options.
When to Get Your Annual Flu Shot
Flu season begins as early as September and can last into the spring months. It is important to get the flu vaccine prior to peak flu season for maximum effectiveness. It takes your body about 2 weeks to form the necessary antibodies after receiving the flu vaccine. This means that the vaccine is not fully effective until 2 weeks after you receive it. The earlier you get your vaccine the better. However, because flu season can last into the spring, getting your flu vaccine at any point during flu season is a prime example of better late than never!
Walk Into AFC Waltham for Flu Shots Available on a Walk-In Basis
If you’re in need of your annual flu vaccine, AFC Waltham can help. Our clinic offers flu shots in our walk-in clinic 7 days a week from 8am-8pm. Simply walk-in when it is convenient. We maintain short wait times, making it simple to get your flu shot. If you prefer to plan in advance, you can schedule your visit in advance online. For more information regarding flu shots, contact the clinic directly at (781) 894-6900.
