The Importance of the Flu Vaccine

By Adilene Guzman Community Outreach Coordinator for HAPPI Health

Fall has arrived, the leaves are changing colors, and the weather is getting cooler. Although there are many things to look forward to this season, it also brings along the flu season. It is the part we do not enjoy about the colder months; influenza spreads like wildfire yearly. Getting a flu shot is vital to help prevent the spread during this season.

There are four types of influenza: A, B, C, and D. Flu D does not infect humans, and flu C tends to cause mild infections, which is why the World Health Organization does not consider it a public health risk. Flu A and B are the types of influenza responsible for seasonal epidemics. Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Recently, it was believed that flu A viruses can be more severe than flu B, but research has proven this to be incorrect.

Many factors affect how severe flu infection can be, for example, if you have a chronic illness, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems, and organ donors who take anti-rejection drugs. Age also plays a role in the severity of influenza; young children and the elderly are at an increased risk for complications or even death when infected. Studies have shown flu viruses are becoming resistant to antiviral treatments, which is another added reason for concern.

When we get the flu vaccine, we decrease the chances of spreading it to others and minimize the risk of complications that could lead to death. There is a common misconception that getting a flu shot means that you will not contract the virus, but that is not the case. Anyone who gets vaccinated can still get the flu because flu viruses are consistently changing and evolving.

Medical scientists do their best to create the most effective flu vaccine possible. The Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System of the World Health Organization collaborate with medical health centers worldwide to study the flu viruses currently circulating. They get together twice a year to review data collected and determine what strands of the virus should be included in the vaccine for each flu season.

It is recommended to get vaccinated before the season starts, as there is a two-week incubation period for the vaccine to work. The body needs time to develop the necessary amount of antibodies to fight off infection. If you are interested in getting vaccinated, there are different options, such as a nasal spray or an injection. Please discuss with your primary care physician the options available or any concerns about the flu vaccine.

At HAPPI Health, we encourage all our patients and their families to get their flu shot annually. Flu vaccines are now available at all our clinics; simply call to set up an appointment or walk-in into our Urgent Care for flu shots.

Sources: World Health Organization, Centers of Disease Control and Prevention