Nov. 16, 2022
A Friendly Reminder to Get Your Flu Vaccine
Flu viruses can circulate throughout the year but typically increase in October and usually peak between December and February. At Lee Health, between Oct. 1 and the first week of November, we’d already seen a 118% increase in positive flu tests.
Because of this significant increase in flu cases in our community, and because the flu is very contagious, we want to remind and encourage you to get your flu vaccine if you haven’t already. It is important to note, the flu can be transmitted to others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after the illness begins. Remember, too, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the antibodies to develop in the body.
The flu vaccine is the best and most important step you can take to prevent flu. While it still is possible to get sick even after vaccination, getting the flu shot reduces the severity of the illness. Because of this protection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months of age and older receive the vaccine. Vaccination is particularly important for those who are at high risk of developing flu-related complications, including:
- Adults age 65 years and older
- Pregnant women
- Residents in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
- Children younger than 5, but especially younger than 2 years of age
- People who have medical conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, chronic lung diseases and weakened immune systems, among others
The more people in our community who are vaccinated, the greater the wall of defense. Join us and roll up your sleeve so we can achieve high levels of vaccine coverage, also known as community immunity. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions about seasonal flu or the flu vaccine.