Do I need a flu shot? (Hint: The Flu is NOT just a bad cold.)

Bad Bug

Flu shot is key to preventing disease

If you think the flu is just a really bad cold, continue reading. The flu is actually a contagious disease that can lead to serious illness such as pneumonia, and may even require hospitalization.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. A flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, especially those with an increased risk of serious flu-related complications, including pregnant women, young children, seniors, and people with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

During the most recent flu season, the CDC reported that the flu vaccine had reduced a vaccinated person’s risk of getting the flu and having to go to the doctor by about half (48 percent). Other studies reported that, even if the vaccine did not prevent the flu, it reduced deaths, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, ICU length of stay, and overall duration of hospitalization among younger and older hospitalized flu patients.

Reduce your flu risk this winter

Once you’ve been vaccinated, here are other ways you can decrease your risk or your family’s risk of contracting the flu:

• Wash your hands often.
• Avoid touching your mouth, eyes and nose.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow instead of your hands.
• Boost your immune system by eating well, drinking fluids, getting plenty of rest and exercising.

Get a flu shot in Northern Virginia

Learn about Inova’s flu shot clinic dates, times and locations at inova.org/flu.

Download or print the Inova 2017 flu clinic schedule (PDF)