Flu shots are now available at 13 different MANA locations across Northwest Arkansas.That means it’s flu season! Unlike the holiday season or the lovely seasons of fall and winter, flu season doesn’t bring beautiful landscapes or happy traditions. It brings fatigue, fever, sore muscles, coughing, headache, sore throat, and sometimes digestive symptoms, too.
Should you receive a flu shot?
In general, everyone over 6 months of age should get a flu shot. There are some exceptions, including people who are allergic to flu shots or ingredients used to make the vaccinations. There are also different flu shots for different age groups. For example, people over 65 can have a high dose flu shot that is not appropriate for younger people.
People with Guillain-Barré Syndrome should not get flu shots, and you should talk with your doctor if you feel ill when you come in to get a flu shot.
Apart from these special circumstances, you should get a flu shot. Flu season — now — is the right time to do it. But flu season doesn’t just mean the time when the flu shots are available.
Flu season, which can last from October through May, is the time of year when larger numbers of people have the flu. When more people have the flu, it’s naturally easier for others to catch the flu. You can help avoid catching it — and help reduce the number of people who get the flu — by getting vaccinated.
Each flu season is different. Different types of flu germs show up each year, so you have to be vaccinated every year. It’s a simple shot or nasal spray that takes just a short time, and it will protect you and others.
Go ahead and get your flu shot now, and take your kids for their flu shots, too. ‘Tis the season!