Why it’s important to get a flu shot every year

It’s National Influenza Awareness Week.

If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, now is a good time to do so – especially if family and friends are getting together for the holidays.

“You may be surrounded by people who are older, younger, or who can’t get the vaccines and are actually immunocompromised. “So it’s really important to protect not only yourself but also your loved ones,” explained Dr. Neha Vyas, a family physician for Cleveland Clinic.

Vyas said the flu shot can also help reduce the severity of symptoms if you do end up getting sick.

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According to the CDC, vaccination is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Side effects, if you experience them, are generally mild and short-lived.

These may include pain at the injection site, fever, fatigue, muscle pain and headache.

“In addition to vaccinating yourself and your loved ones, it is important that you cover your cough. If you feel unwell, make sure to wear a mask,” advises Vyas. “It is also important to wash your hands before touching your face or before eating, and to ensure that all frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, kitchen sinks and taps, are cleaned regularly with a disinfectant or disinfectant wipe .”

Vyas said apart from the flu shot, the public should also get vaccinated against COVID-19, pneumonia and RSV if eligible.