With the arrival of colder weather comes the inevitable onset of flu season. Influenza, also known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Its symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe suffering, and in some cases, it can even prove deadly, leading to hospitalization or worse. Fortunately, there is an effective tool available to combat the flu—the flu vaccine.
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How Does the Flu Work?
Understanding the flu virus itself is integral to comprehending the limitations of the flu vaccine. The flu virus exists in different strains, and predicting which strain will be most prevalent in a given year requires extensive research and analysis. Scientists and mathematicians study the genetic makeup and spreading patterns of various flu strains to make informed predictions. Based on these predictions, the appropriate strains are selected for inclusion in the annual flu vaccine. However, due to the ever-evolving nature of the flu virus, it’s possible to encounter less prominent strains that are not specifically targeted by the vaccine. In such cases, even if you are vaccinated, it is still possible to get sick. Nonetheless, getting vaccinated remains essential to provide protection against the more prevalent strains and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
How the Flu Vaccine Works
Have you ever wondered how the flu vaccine works? It’s a common question, given the fact that it’s one of the most common vaccines. The flu vaccine works by introducing harmless versions of the influenza virus into your body. These weakened or inactivated viruses prompt your immune system to produce specific antibodies to target the virus. When you come into contact with the actual flu virus, these antibodies recognize and attack it, helping to prevent infection or reduce the severity of symptoms if you do become infected. It is important to note the vaccine does not give you the flu itself, as the viruses used in the vaccine are either inactive or is unlikely to cause severe illness in humans.
Getting the flu vaccine not only protects your own health but also that of others around you.
Why It’s Important to Get the Flu Vaccine
Reducing the Risk of Infection
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary from year to year depending on the specific strains that circulate. However, even when the vaccine is not a perfect match, studies have consistently shown that it reduces the risk of illness and hospitalization. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu vaccine reduces the risk of flu-related doctor visits up to 60%.
Prevents Severe Outbreaks
The flu vaccine not only reduces the likelihood of individuals becoming seriously ill but also helps prevent severe outbreaks in communities. According to the CDC, in the 2019-2020 flu season, the vaccine prevented an estimated 7.5 million infections. By getting vaccinated, you help limit the spread of the virus. When a large portion of the population is vaccinated against the flu, it creates a protective effect known as herd immunity. This means even those who are unable to receive the vaccine, such as infants under six months old or individuals with certain medical conditions, are less likely to be exposed to the flu virus.
Protecting Others
Getting the flu vaccine not only protects your own health but also that of others around you. Individuals who are unable to get vaccinated due to age, medical conditions, or other reasons rely on herd immunity to prevent illness and complications. By getting vaccinated, you help create a barrier of protection around these vulnerable individuals, ensuring their safety. This is particularly crucial for populations such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems, who are at higher risk of severe illness if infected with the flu.
Be Prepared this Flu Season with OnSite Health
Getting the flu vaccine is of utmost importance for reducing the risk of infection, preventing severe outbreaks, and protecting the health of vulnerable individuals. At OnSite Health, we understand the significance of making the vaccination process as convenient and accessible as possible. That’s why we offer the expertise of accredited on-site nurses who can administer flu vaccines to your employees right at your workplace. This service eliminates the need for your employees to schedule appointments or travel to a clinic, saving them time and ensuring a higher vaccination rate among your workforces. Learn more about how we can provide a vaccination program for your organization.
