If you’re looking to protect yourself from getting sick this flu season, opting for the flu vaccination is a wise choice. While most people know a flu shot will keep them from contracting influenza, Fairview Clinic, P.C of Dothan, AL, says there’s still a lot left to know about this essential vaccine.

To keep you informed, the physicians at Fairview Clinic, P.C. have compiled a list of need-to-know seasonal flu vaccine facts:

• Everyone Should Get It: Even if you’re healthy, get the flu vaccination. Influenza can affect people of all ages, even those with healthy immune systems. The flu virus is especially dangerous for young children and the elderly, so it’s imperative that these groups see a doctor for the vaccine. Babies under six months of age generally cannot receive the flu vaccine.​​​​​​​
• The Vaccine Creates Antibodies: How does a flu vaccination work its magic? The doctors at Fairview Clinic, P.C. say it causes antibodies to develop in your body and prepare to fight off the influenza virus. It takes about two weeks after receiving the shot for your body to begin making these antibodies.

• 2 Types Of Vaccines: For the 2016—2017 flu season, two kinds of vaccines are available for administration. The trivalent flu vaccine is a three-component shot that’s injected into the muscle of the arm and is approved for people age 18 and older. Recommended for adults and children ages four and up, the quadrivalent flu vaccine is a four-component shot that’s injected into the skin using a much smaller needle.
• You Should Get Vaccinated By October: Once the flu vaccination is available for the year, you should make an appointment to get it. October is the ideal time to have it administered, but doctors say you can get it all the way up until January—even later in some cases. Talk with your doctor to determine the best time for you.​​​​​​​
• You Need A Flu Shot Every Year: The flu vaccine is only active for one season, and since the influenza vaccine weakens over time, you won’t be properly protected unless you receive a new shot each year. Additionally, the flu virus changes from year to year, so the shot you got last year may not protect you against this year’s illness.

Want to schedule a time to receive your flu vaccination? If you live in the Dothan area, call Fairview Clinic, P.C. at (334) 794-3192 for an appointment. For directions to their clinic, visit the website.