We have all heard that the flu vaccine causes the flu before. That myth was debunked a long time ago, so you can’t use it as an excuse to not get your shot. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. People with the flu spread it by coughing, sneezing or talking near others. The droplets that are expelled from them can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Flu is also spread by someone touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or possibly their nose.

Another reason to get a flu shot is that the flu can cause complications such as bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, ear infections, sinus infections, and lead to death in some cases. Anyone can get the flu, but people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and young children, are at risk for developing flu-related complications.

So, you think you’re safe from catching the flu because you received a flu shot last year? We don’t mean to burst your bubble, but unfortunately, flu vaccine effectiveness does not last from year to year. The body’s ability to also fight off the flu after a vaccine decreases over time. It is recommended that you get your flu vaccine as soon as it is available each year, preferably by October. It takes 14 days for immunity to build and provide flu protection.

Last season, 4,500 flu-related deaths were reported to the CDC, including 104 children. In addition, it is estimated that 60 percent of hospitalizations during flu season (ages 18-65 ) were flu-related. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Get your flu shot at Carmichael’s Pharmacy in Crowley!