Frequently Asked Questions about the Flu Vaccine

Posted by pacificmedical on February 5th, 2019

Have you got your flu shot this year? Remember that every flu season is different, so you should get the flu shot each year. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the flu shot.

The influenza virus causes the flu. The flu shot became available to the public in 1946 but the CDC began recommending vaccination for all Americans in 2010.

Why is the Flu Shot Important?

Some people experience only mild symptoms in flu. But many suffer from severe symptoms which can lead to hospitalization, disability and even death.

During the 2017-2018 flu season, 185 children died from flu and 80% of them had not been given the flu shot.

The flu shot reduces the severity of symptoms and the risk of needing medical care and the risk of complications for those with chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or diabetes.

Flu vaccination is especially important for babies, children, older adults and people with chronic diseases. Vaccination is also important for pregnant women and their unborn babies.

How Does the Vaccine Work?

Within 2 weeks of getting the flu shot, your body develops antibodies against the flu virus. Side effects of the shot are rare.

Who Should Get a Flu Shot?

Flu vaccine is recommended for anyone aged 6 months and older. Those with an egg allergy and those with Guillain-Barré syndrome should not get a flu shot.

What Strains Are Covered by the Flu Vaccine?

There are two strains of the influenza or flu virus – A and B. Early flu vaccines covered influenza A and B. Each year the flu vaccine is updated with three strains of the virus – typically, a combination of two A strains with one B strain.

The vaccine for the 2019 flu season offers protection against the strains H1N1 and H3N2. Both of these are A strains. H3N2 is an especially severe strain. The flu shot protects against influenza B.

While it’s best to get your flu shot by the end of October, protection is important even late in the flu season. Visit an internal medicine doctor right away if you still need to get a flu shot. Your internal medicine doctor is an expert in comprehensive adult care and focuses on treating the whole individual, not just one organ. Having a long-term relationship of trust with your doctor ensures your long-term health.

If you are looking for the best San Diego internal medicine doctors, pain management doctors or house call doctor services, call Pacific Medical Care at 619-333-8114 Today. All you have to do is make a phone call and the doctor will be at your doorstep within a short while! The San Diego internal medicine doctors at Pacific Medical Care are Board Certified, highly skilled, compassionate and knowledgeable.