Health and Fitness Tips

live a long, healthy life one step at a time

Cold weather is known for a lot of things. While a lot of positive aspects, like snowmen, Christmas presents, hot chocolate, and more, come during the wintertime, it’s also known for kicking off many illnesses throughout homes, schools, and workplaces. In fact, around 200,000 Americans are put into the hospital every year because of flue-related complications. If you want to lower your risk of exposure, invest in flu-preventing multi-dose vaccines today.

Flu Shots and Other Vaccines Improve Health

If you have young children or if your job requires a lot of human interaction throughout the day, getting a flu shot will not only improve your health, it will also ensure others don’t get sick, as well. Adults who get the flu can start spreading the virus a full day before symptoms start occurring and up to seven days after they are aware of the infection.

Vaccines, in general, play a big role in reducing health risks throughout the world. According to the World Health Organization, millions of deaths are prevented every single year, thanks to immunizations. Measles, for example, has decreased by 84% since the vaccine was introduced.

Most flu shots are multi-dose vaccines. This means getting one protects against two types of influenza A viruses and an influenza B virus. A seasonal vaccine will fight against whichever strand is predicted to be the most harmful throughout the upcoming season. All in all, a simple shot can make a big difference on how healthy you stay throughout these months.

Worried about age? There are vaccines for seniors, such as the fluad flu shot, that are acceptable for people over 65. That being said, if you have any questions regarding age, past health history, or anything else, it’s wise to speak with your doctor before receiving any medical treatment.

Get it Early

The flu vaccine is not something you want to put off. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October, since it can take up to the two weeks for the shot to be effective against the illness it is fighting against. That being said, if it is already into December or January and you have not been vaccinated, you are still encouraged to do so. There is still time for the shot to make a very positive impact on your health.

Multi-dose vaccines, like the flu shot, keep you and countless others out of the hospital every single year. Don’t wait. Get vaccinated today.