How the Seasonal Flu Vaccine Helps You Stay Healthy
With flu season in full swing, it’s important that you follow the right steps to stay healthy and prevent the spread of this viral respiratory illness by getting vaccinated. But, you may find yourself wondering how this shot helps your body to ward off the seasonal flu.
The experts at Kirby Medical Center are here to share how getting the seasonal flu vaccine works and how it can help you to fend off the flu.
How the Vaccine Works
Whether you get the flu shot or the nasal spray vaccine, they effectively help your body fight off the flu and prevent you from getting sick. This is because the vaccine helps your body develop antibodies that protect your body from infection. Typically, your body develops these flu-fighting antibodies about 2 weeks after you receive the vaccine.
Although the effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies from season to season, recent studies by the CDC show that getting vaccinated can lower the risk of getting sick with the flu by 40-60% during flu season.
How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?
According to the CDC, it is recommended that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated for the seasonal flu at least once every year. Because it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop after getting the vaccine, it is recommended that most people get their flu shot before the end of October to ensure that they are protected at the height of flu season.
Contact Kirby Medical Center
At Kirby Medical Center, we are dedicated to helping our community learn how to stay healthy and safe. If you are concerned about your health risks and the types of vaccines that are right for you, contact Kirby Medical Center at 217-762-2115 to learn more about how we can assist with all your healthcare needs.