What to Take to Avoid the Flu
10 Benefits of Getting a Flu Shot This Winter
As winter approaches, "Have you gotten your flu shot yet?" is probably a question you hear constantly. You may think you don't have time, you don't have to worry because you're healthy or you don't want to give big pharma more money, but the truth is influenza is a serious — even potentially deadly — disease. If you need more incentive, think about some of the best reasons to get your flu shot this year.
You're Unlikely to Get the Flu
Of course, the most obvious reason for getting a flu shot is that it prevents you from getting the flu. Influenza can strike any person exposed to it at any time, regardless of their age, gender, health status or other factors.
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It May Prevent More Serious Complications
Although most people recover from the flu in a week or two, it's possible for cases of the flu to lead to serious complications, like dehydration, pneumonia and infections. People who live in nursing homes, senior citizens, children under the age of five, pregnant women and those with conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, lung disease, diabetes, blood disorders and autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop complications, especially without the vaccine. Some studies have shown that the flu can even lead to heart attacks, strokes and blood clots.
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It Can Keep You Out of the Hospital
Serious complications usually have serious consequences that could land you in the hospital. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults who receive the flu shot are less likely to end up in the ICU, and they have shorter stays when they do end up in the hospital.
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It Can Help You Have a Safe Pregnancy
As an expectant mom, you want to do everything possible to keep your baby safe. Pregnant women and those who have given birth within the last few weeks are more likely to develop complications from the flu, especially when they haven't been vaccinated. The shot can also help protect your baby after birth.
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It May Make Parenting Easier
If you already have kids — or nieces and nephews — getting a flu shot is especially important because you could expose little ones to the flu. Kids over the age of six months can get the flu shot, and studies have shown that it does save lives. If you and your kids get the flu shot, it could help ensure healthy kids throughout flu season, giving you one less worry as a parent.
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It's Easy to Access and Doesn't Hurt
One good thing about the flu shot is it's readily available. Most drug stores and pharmacies offer inexpensive or even free vaccinations, and health insurance also covers it. Most people don't suffer any negative side effects from the flu shot, and if you're afraid of needles, a nasal mist alternative is sometimes available. Check with your local pharmacy to find out where to get the flu shot in your area.
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You Can Bank Your Sick Days
If you work, you know how important it is to save those sick days for emergencies or times when you just need a mental health break. Unfortunately, if you get the flu, you'll use those days up quickly, as it can take several days to feel well enough to get back to your daily routine.
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You Can Help Keep Friends and Family Healthy
If your parents keep nagging you to get a flu shot, you could be doing them a favor by complying. Even if you don't get the flu yourself, you could spread the germs to your family and friends, including senior adults and babies. Getting a flu shot minimizes your risk of spreading the disease.
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It Can Save You Money
If you're not concerned about keeping everyone around you healthy, think about how skipping the flu shot could impact your bank account. Not only would the flu force you to take time off from work, but it would lead to doctor's visits, medications, chicken noodle soup, tissues, orange juice and anything else you need when you're sick.
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It Can Save Your Life
Most importantly, getting a flu shot can save your life. Every year, thousands of people die from the flu or complications of the disease. The risk just isn't worth it.
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