Although we have all been dealing with the coronavirus pandemic since March 2020, the flu virus will still arrive along with the colder temperatures. Influenza cases will converge with COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) cases soon, because viruses thrive in cold weather.
Our focus has been on desperately awaiting the coronavirus vaccine. However, we already have a very effective flu vaccine – so all of the hype of the expected vaccine is probably a good way of reminding everyone that we should all get our flu vaccines this year.
Influenza has a much greater impact on young adults and children than the novel coronavirus does. Let’s talk about why flu shots are imperative for your family’s health and where you can go to get them quickly and easily.
How the Flu Virus Infects the Body
Influenza (the flu) is a viral respiratory illness that attacks your nose, throat, and lungs. Some people may recover from the flu without medical intervention, but more than 30,000 Americans died from the flu last season alone, including more than 150 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
That fact is obscured amid all the news about the coronavirus pandemic.
Flu viruses travel through the air and can spread to others when an infected person coughs, sneezes, and talks. You can also get the flu from touching an object that has viral droplets on it and then touching your face afterward.
The symptoms of the flu are similar to the symptoms of coronavirus. You may get a runny or stuffy nose, a dry and persistent cough, fever, achy muscles, and tiredness and weakness.
Protecting Your Family from the Flu Virus
The flu is potentially deadly, but it is preventable. Protecting yourself from the flu virus means getting vaccinated via an annual flu shot. In light of the ongoing pandemic, it may be the most important flu shot you will ever get.
When Two Deadly Viruses Collide
Interestingly, the flu vaccine is credited with preventing approximately 4.4 million cases of influenza during the 2019-2020 flu season in the U.S. It is thus absolutely imperative to strengthen your body as much as possible, because there is the possibility of catching both viruses at the same time. Infected by both viruses, your lungs may be permanently damaged, and there is a much greater risk of a fatal outcome.
Flu Vaccine in North Richland Hills
The best way to protect yourself and your family is for everyone to have a yearly flu shot by a trusted healthcare provider. This is especially true for a person who belongs to a high-risk group, including people who are over the age of 60, those with chronic conditions, with weakened immune systems, young children, and infants. You can begin to have a flu shot starting at 6 months of age.
Come in today for your flu vaccine shot at EMC Express Care in North Richland Hills. We are a walk-in clinic open from 10 am to 8 pm daily. If you have any questions, call us today at (817) 503-8800. We look forward to helping you and your family stay safe and healthy.
