Influenza is a respiratory illness, otherwise known as the flu, that causes symptoms including fever, chills, coughing, fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, and more. This type of illness is highly contagious and can infect the throat, lungs, and sinuses. Influenza typically spreads through microscopic droplets that can be spread from person to person. These droplets can be passed on through sneezing, coughing, talking, or physical contact. Additionally, you can get influenza by touching an object with the flu virus on it. This disease is most contagious within the first three to four days. Getting a vaccine is one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of influenza.

There are two major types of influenza vaccines, live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV) and inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV). The live attenuated influenza vaccine can be sprayed into the nose to prevent the seasonal flu, whereas inactivated influenza vaccine is injected directly into the muscle. These vaccines work by helping your immune system create antibodies that will attack any strains of influenza. The antibodies will develop within the first two weeks of your vaccination.

The influenza vaccine should be given to everyone in the month of October. This will protect you and your family during the flu season. If you miss the October deadline, you can still get vaccinated by your primary care physician during the winter months. We highly recommend you get vaccinated before the peak flu season.
 
Although some vaccines can work forever, the influenza vaccine needs to be given once a year. This is due to the fast-changing nature of the influenza virus. Every year, new strains form, causing a new strain to be created. This allows for the most optimal immunization results.

Everyone that is six months or older should get the influenza vaccine in the fall. This is especially vital for those who are at high risk of the development of serious influenza complications. This includes young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with an autoimmune disorder. If you have any allergy concerns, talk to your physician prior to receiving the influenza vaccine.

Influenza vaccines can prevent complications and flu-associated hospitalizations. Though the flu is common, serious complications such as heart inflammation, pneumonia, brain inflammation, multi-organ failure, and myositis can occur. This is why it’s incredibly important to have the necessary antibodies to fight off your infection. Receiving the yearly flu shot has proven to be a highly effective preventative health care measure to help you and your loved ones stay safe.
 
For further information about influenza vaccines offered at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, please schedule an appointment with one of our immunization specialists. The influenza vaccine can help you avoid serious complications and symptoms associated with the flu. This is an important preventative care measure, especially for those who are at a higher risk of developing severe complications. If you would like to book an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, please give us a Call anytime during our business hours or request an appointment through our online form. Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology looks forward to your visit soon! We serve patients from West Bridgewater MA, Bridgewater MA, Taunton MA, Middleborough MA, Plymouth MA, Pembroke MA, Braintree MA, Mansfield MA, Stoughton MA, Brockton MA, Wareham MA, Somerset MA, Attleboro MA, Abington MA, and surrounding areas.