Ten Reasons to Get This Year’s Flu Shot. Now.

By now most of our regular readers know how we feel about immunizations –we’re for ‘em. So here’s my plug for the flu vaccine, which covers both H1N1 and the seasonal flu for 2011-2012. Protection wanes over the course of a year, so even if you got a flu shot last year you need to get one again to make sure you’re protected. The good news is the guidelines haven’t changed much since last year.

1. There’s lots of vaccine available. Your family doctor, most every pharmacy, the 7-11 on the corner, practically everyone is handing it out like candy. No shortage is anticipated, but it’s always a good idea to get yours before the bug strikes.
2. The flu season hasn’t hit yet. Once it does, you may be exposed before your immune system has a chance to mobilize, even after you get your shot (or nasal mist, also available). It takes at least 2 weeks for your body to produce the protective antibodies you need.
3. You still have time before being consumed by the distraction of THE HOLIDAYS. By the time you’ve recovered it’s January and the virus is everywhere.
4. The seasonal flu and H1N1 formula have been combined into one. No need to get two separate shots this year.
5. In the past, young children and women of childbearing age have been among the hardest hit by the flu, and there’s no reason to think this year will be different.
6. Exaggerated fears about side effects and vaccine reactions were just that — exaggerated. Don’t let the hype and media-driven fear mongering stop you from keeping your family safe and healthy.
7. Herd immunity. You heard it here first. When a critical percentage of the population is immunized and prevented from carrying and spreading the virus — about 90% need to be vaccinated — it is protective for those who are too young or too ill to be protected by the vaccine themselves, like babies under 6 months and adults suffering from chronic diseases.
8. The vaccine’s effectiveness is strongest during the first six months after receiving a flu shot. After that, the strength of the protection begins to diminish. So even if you got vaccinated last year, you need the shot again this year.
9. Medical conditions like prematurity, asthma, diabetes, pregnancy, and obesity (!) increase the risk of complications if you get the flu. You may not consider yourself at risk, but reconsider your health status … and that of those you love.
10. The vaccine reduces the average person’s chances of catching the flu by 80%. It contains killed flu viruses that will not cause the flu, but will prepare the body to fight off infection with the live virus. Even if someone who’s been vaccinated gets the flu, symptoms will be fewer and milder. It’s safe and it works. Go for it!