This Is Why Everyone Should Get a Flu Shot

Every year, millions of Americans get the flu, a common illness that can make people feel sick. On average, between 9 and 41 million people in the U.S. catch the flu annually. Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu. Flu vaccines help prevent the spread of the flu and can keep you from getting sick. In the United States, about half of the population gets a flu shot each year, which helps reduce the number of people who get the flu. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself but also helping to keep your community healthier.

Flu season arrives every year, and while the flu can make anyone feel miserable, there is a simple and effective way to protect yourself: getting a flu shot. If you’re curious about what a flu shot is, why it’s important, and how it works.

What Is a Flu Shot?

A flu shot is a vaccine that helps protect against the influenza virus, commonly known as the flu. The flu is a contagious virus that can spread easily, especially during the colder months. The flu shot is designed to prepare your body to fight the flu virus, making it less likely for you to get sick. It works by introducing inactive or weakened parts of the flu virus into your body. Your immune system then creates antibodies that can recognize and fight the actual flu virus if you come into contact with it later on.

Each year, the flu shot is updated to protect against the most common strains of the flu expected for the upcoming season. Since flu viruses change over time, it’s important to get a flu shot every year for the best protection.

Risk Groups That Should Get a Flu Vaccine

Although anyone can benefit from a flu shot, some groups are at a higher risk of getting very sick from the flu. These people may experience more severe symptoms and complications if they catch the flu. That’s why they need to get vaccinated. Some of these high-risk groups include:

• Older adults: People aged 65 and older are more likely to have severe complications from the flu.
• Young children: Kids under 5, especially those younger than 2, can get very sick from the flu.
• Pregnant women: Getting the flu during pregnancy can be harmful to both the mother and the baby.
• People with certain health conditions: Individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system are at higher risk.