Whether you’re receiving your annual flu shot or considering vaccination for the first time, understanding how the vaccine works can help you make informed decisions about your health.

What are the benefits of getting a flu vaccine?

Getting an annual flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to help protect yourself against seasonal influenza. Even if you do get the flu, vaccination may reduce the severity of your illness and lower your risk of serious complications, hospitalization, and missed work or school.

Getting vaccinated also helps protect vulnerable individuals in your community, including young children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions.

Are there any common side effects from the flu vaccine?

Most side effects from the flu vaccine are mild and temporary. You may experience:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue

These symptoms usually go away on their own within a few days. Serious allergic reactions are rare. If you have concerns about allergies or previous vaccine reactions, speak with your healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine.

Can I receive a flu vaccine with other vaccines, such as COVID-19 or RSV?

For many patients, flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines can be administered during the same visit. Receiving recommended vaccines together can be a convenient way to stay protected against multiple respiratory illnesses.

Your healthcare provider can help determine which vaccines are appropriate based on your age, medical history, and individual health needs.

Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?

Flu viruses change each year, and new strains regularly emerge. The flu vaccine is updated annually to provide protection against the strains expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season.

In addition, the body’s immune protection decreases over time. Getting a flu vaccine every year helps ensure you have the best possible protection against seasonal influenza.

When should I get my flu vaccine?

The best time to get a flu vaccine is typically during September or October, before flu activity begins to increase. However, vaccination can still provide benefits later in the season if you have not yet received your flu shot.

Because flu viruses can continue circulating throughout the fall and winter, it’s never too late to help protect yourself.

How can I help prevent the spread of the flu?

In addition to getting vaccinated, you can help reduce the spread of influenza by:

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Staying home when you are feeling ill until you have recovered

These simple habits can help protect your family, friends, coworkers, and community.

Care Resource’s Commitment to Flu Prevention

At Care Resource, we are committed to helping our patients stay healthy throughout flu season. Flu vaccinations are available for eligible patients, and our healthcare teams follow established infection prevention practices to help maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Protecting yourself from the flu helps protect those around you. Talk with your primary care provider about whether a flu vaccine is right for you and schedule your appointment today.