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Things to Know
Flu shots also known as Influenza Vaccines are given to protect against four influenza viruses. Influenza often called the flu, is an infection of the respiratory tract. Influenza vaccines are the best way to avoid the misery of the flu and its complications. Flu shots are usually injected into arms but there are flu nasal sprays available too.
The flu or influenza virus rapidly changes, therefore, new flu vaccines are released every year to keep up with the rapid mutation of viruses. This makes it important for everyone to get their flu shots every year so that their immune system can make antibodies for the new and transformed virus.
At Family Urgent Care, we maintain an up-to-date inventory of vaccines to be administered. Our experienced nurses and staff are trained to handle vaccine administration with utmost care
Who should get the vaccine?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), annual flu shots should be given to everyone aged 6 months and above. People prone to influenza infection are highly recommended to get the shot, these include:
Children younger than age 2
Pregnant ladies
Adults older than age 50
Immuno-compromised individuals
Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
People aged 6 months to 18 years who take aspirin or salicylate-containing medication
People suffering chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes
People with a BMI of 40 or higher
Who SHOULD NOT get a flu shot?
Although you might assume that flu shots are harmless and can be given to every individual. However, certain factors including some medical conditions prohibit the administration of flu shots.
These include
Children younger than 6 months
Individuals with life-threatening allergies to any flu vaccine ingredients
Individuals who had an allergic reaction to a previous dose of flu vaccine
Some individuals with a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Are there any side effects of the Flu shots?
There are mild to no side effects of this vaccine, they are very safe and are injected into the muscle of the upper arm of an adult. Some mild side effects that last for a day or so are slight fever, muscle aches, and sore arm where the needle went in.
To reduce the discomfort, continue to move your arm regularly and take a painkiller, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, some people, including those who are pregnant, should not take ibuprofen unless a doctor recommends it.
If you happen to have a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine, rush to the ER. Though it’s very rare for someone to have an allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis) to the flu shot.
Family Urgent Care clinics provide ER services and have professionals who can provide immediate care for you. We provide flu shots at all of the Family Urgent Care Clinics.
We entertain walk-in consultations, checkups, and ER services. Contact us today for any health concerns you might have. We have three locations, namely, Schererville Urgent Care Clinic, Lincoln Park Urgent care Clinic, and Morse Urgent Care Clinic. Visit us today!
