It’s Cold and Flu Season, Are you prepared?

In the United States, flu season occurs in the Fall and Winter.  Influenza viruses circulate year-round, but most flu activity peaks between December and February, and can last as late as May.

The Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs.  It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.   The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that the best way to prevent the flu is to get the flu vaccine, but is the vaccine right for you?

The CDC recommends that you should get a flu vaccine before flu begins spreading in your community.  It takes about 2 weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body.  The CDC also recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine.  Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complication from influenza, such as children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and pregnant women.

As an added convenience, many drug stores and retail outlets provide flu shots.  It is easy to simply get a flu shot during your shopping trip!   For more information regarding the flu vaccine, contact your physician.

Source:  cdc.gov/flu