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Pennsylvania state health officials, as well as those at the national level, are urging everyone to get a flu vaccine this fall and winter. But why is there such an urgency from public health leaders to promote flu shots?
Well, it’s pretty simple. The flu shot is your best defense against the flu—a common and extremely contagious illness that can have serious complications. According to the Pennsylvania health department there is an average of 22 different types of Influenza viruses active in Bucks County.
Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Warrington provides some insight on how you can prevent the influenza virus this winter!
What is Flu and why do you need a Flu Shot?
Influenza also called Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that infects the nose, throat and lings. Flu Vaccination can minimize the risk of Flu-associated hospitalization for children, working age adults and older adults. Flu vaccines minimizes the risk of flu associated hospitalizations among adults by 40%.
2017 flu season was hard hit in America with over 80,000 deaths and Pennsylvania reporting more than 100,000 cases and more than 200 deaths.
People at Highest Risk of the Flu & Complications
Healthy adults are the least likely to get serious medical ailments or conditions from the influenza virus. The groups of people that are likely to need a flu shot include:
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Pregnant women
Kids are very effective spreaders of the disease that they can effectively spread to the entire family and other children at a day-care or at a school.
The most at risk population includes seniors and young children as their immunity systems are most likely compromised.
Pennsylvania Health department recommends everyone above the age of 6 months to obtain a Flu vaccine every season.
How long does the Flu season last?
Flu Season can start as early as October going all the way till May at some places. Children 6 months to 8 years of age need 2 doses and it is best to get the first dose by the end of October. For anyone who needs only 1 dose may get it before August.
Effective Ways to Prevent the Flu?
Our Doctors at AFC Urgent Care Warrington offer and encourage vaccination as long as the flu viruses are circulating within local communities. In addition to getting a flu shot, our doctors recommend other steps you can take to prevent the illness. Those are to practice basic good hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.
Since the flu is very contagious, it’s important to know the signs of the flu—and seek prompt medical care if you experience them. This can help to stop the spreading of the illness. Look for initial symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, fever, headache, and nausea!
AFC Urgent Care Warrington has conducted a free Flu Camp on October 18th 2019 with association from the Warrington Township for all the residents of Central Bucks located around Warrington, Warminster, Doylestown, Horsham, Chalfont, and Hatboro.
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