Flu Shots and Pneumonia Vaccinations
Understanding Benefits of Flu Shots and Pneumonia Vaccinations
While a flu shot may not prevent you from getting the flu, it will definitely reduce your symptoms should you contract it. The same goes for a pneumonia shot. Dr. Weisz is prepared to administer both or either vaccine to all members of your family. Older adults and people with certain health issues are more likely to get pneumonia. Their immune systems will experience more difficulty in fighting off such diseases. That’s why getting a flu or a pneumonia shot is particularly important.
Weakened Immune System Makes Patients Susceptible to Pneumonia
If you suffer from any of the following diseases, you are more likely to have a weakened immune system and that will make you more susceptible to contracting pneumonia:
Heart disease
Diabetes
Emphysema
Asthma
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
People who receive chemotherapy, people who have had organ transplants, and people with HIV or AIDS are also at higher risk.
While catching the flu is not considered a serious illness in the majority of cases, the risk should not be taken lightly. Influenza can cause serious complications that may require hospitalization. These complications include but are not limited to dehydration, bacterial pneumonia, and ear and sinus infections. More than 200,000 people per year are hospitalized due to the flu. According to the CDC, an estimated 80,000 Americans suffered from influenza that led to death during the 2017-18 flu season.
Understanding Who Can Get Flu Shots
Who should get a flu shot? “Anyone over six months of age,” says Dr. Weisz. Side effects, when they show up, are mild and minimal. They may include a headache, a stuffy nose or a sore throat. These typically disappear in a few days. A much better alternative than suffering with the flu that lasts for weeks and has much more severe symptoms.
Since it takes a few weeks for the body to produce the antibodies it needs to ward off these diseases, it’s a good idea to receive the vaccines early in the season (October and November). Stop by the office soon to get yours and enjoy a healthy and worry-free flu season.
