As a family medicine practice, we strongly recommend getting a flu vaccine every year. The flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and can even lead to hospitalization or death. Here’s why getting a flu vaccine is so important: 

What is the flu vaccine? 

The flu vaccine is a vaccine that helps protect against the flu. There are several types of flu vaccines, including the inactivated flu vaccine (which is given as a shot), the live attenuated influenza vaccine (which is given as a nasal spray), and the recombinant flu vaccine (which is given as a shot). All flu vaccines contain antigens that help your body recognize and fight the flu virus. 

Why is the flu vaccine important? 

The flu vaccine is important for several reasons. First, it helps protect you from getting the flu. While the flu vaccine is not 100% effective, it can greatly reduce your chances of getting the flu. Second, it helps protect those around you, including those who are unable to get a flu vaccine themselves, such as infants and people with certain medical conditions. Finally, getting a flu vaccine can help reduce the overall impact of the flu on our communities, including reducing the number of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. 

How often should you get a flu vaccine? 

You should get a flu vaccine every year, as the flu virus can change from year to year. The best time to get a flu vaccine is in the fall, before flu season begins. However, it’s never too late to get a flu vaccine – even if flu season has already started, getting a flu vaccine can still be beneficial. 

Who should get a flu vaccine? 

Everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu vaccine, with rare exceptions. However, certain groups of people are at higher risk of complications from the flu, including young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions. These individuals should be especially vigilant about getting their flu vaccine every year. 

At United Hospital District, we offer flu vaccines at all of our locations: Blue Earth, Fairmont, and Wells, MN. We strongly encourage everyone to get a flu vaccine every year to help protect themselves and those around them from the flu. Visit us online or call us today at (507) 526-7388 to schedule an appointment.