The flu has arrived!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu activity is low but expected to pick up as fall progresses. Fayette County Memorial Hospital Medical Surgical Associates already have flu vaccines available at the clinic and are ready to help you beat flu season.

Influenza viruses typically circulate in the United States annually, most commonly from late fall through early spring. While most people recover from the flu, it can cause serious illness, hospitalization and death, particularly among older adults, very young children, pregnant women and those with certain chronic medical conditions.

The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated every year. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine. There are important benefits to the flu vaccine. It can reduce doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Flu vaccine has been shown to be life-saving in children as well. In fact, a 2017 study showed that flu vaccination can significantly reduce a child’s risk of dying from flu.

There are flu shots approved for use in children as young as 6 months of age and flu shots approved for use in adults over 65 years of age. Shots are also recommended for use in pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions. Children who need two doses of vaccine to be protected should start the process sooner, because the two doses must be given at least four weeks apart.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body. The CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, but getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial.

For complete information about the flu vaccine, reach out to the professionals at FCMH Medical Surgical Associates to make an appointment to discuss the flu with a provider. To schedule, call 740-333-3333.