As the holidays and the end of the year approach, it's important to be aware that flu season is in full swing. Right now, New York is seeing a rise in flu cases. But what exactly is the flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms like a sore throat, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, headaches, and fatigue. While the illness caused by the flu virus can sometimes be mild, the flu can also lead to serious complications, especially for people at increased risk. This includes older adults aged 65 years and older, pregnant individuals, children younger than 2 years old, those with a weakened immune system due to disease or medications (such as people with HIV or some cancers) and those with chronic health conditions (including asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes and heart disease).
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is by getting a flu shot. There are many myths about flu shots, but we're here to clear up the most common misconceptions and provide you with the facts.
Myth: A flu shot can give you the flu.
Fact: Flu shots do not cause the flu.
Vaccines are made with dead or weakened viruses or with a single protein from the flu virus. It is normal to experience symptoms like redness, soreness, aches or a fever after receiving the flu shot. This means the vaccine is working to protect you against the virus by stimulating your body to make antibodies against the flu virus.
Myth: It's better to just get the flu instead of getting the vaccine.
Fact: The flu can be serious, particularly if you are at a higher risk of flu complications
If you're pregnant, 65 or older, or have chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer, you are at higher risk of flu complications. About 2,000 New Yorkers die of seasonal flu and pneumonia each year. Getting the flu shot is critical to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Myth: You don't need an annual flu shot.
Fact: Anyone six months and older can and should get the flu shot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the flu vaccine annually. This is because the vaccine changes every year to ensure it's best equipped to handle the new strain. Also, immunity declines over the course of a year, so getting vaccinated once a year is the best protection against the flu.
Myth: If you don't get the vaccine early enough, it's too late.
Fact: The CDC recommends getting the vaccine by the end of October to help protect you the entire flu season.
However, it's better to get the vaccine after October than to not get the vaccine at all. While the flu is most prevalent during the winter months, it can be active as late as May. Once you get the flu vaccine it takes about two weeks to be fully effective, so now is the perfect time to get your vaccine before holiday gatherings.
MVP customers can get the flu shot anywhere for free, but if you get it during a doctor's visit you may be charged a co-pay. Most private health insurance, Medicare and Medicaid plans cover the flu vaccine. Be sure to check your plan benefits for more information about your coverage and deductible details.
For more information on the flu, visit: https://www.mvphealthcare.com/members/resources/health-wellness/flu-shots
To find a pharmacy near you, visit:https://www.vaccines.gov
