Each flu season brings new strains of the influenza virus, and while no one can predict exactly how severe the season will be, one thing remains consistent: the flu shot is your best defense.
The flu is more than just a seasonal nuisance. It can lead to hospitalizations, pneumonia, or even life-threatening complications, especially for young children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. By choosing to get vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself but also reducing spreading the flu within your family, workplace, and community.
Even if you do catch the flu after being vaccinated, research shows your illness is often much milder and shorter-lasting than it would be otherwise. That can mean fewer missed workdays, less risk of spreading the virus to loved ones, and a quicker return to feeling like yourself again.
In short, the flu shot:
- Reduces your risk of getting sick
- Lessens the severity if you do catch the flu
- Helps prevent serious complications like hospitalization
- Protects vulnerable populations who may not be able to fight the virus on their own
When to Get a Flu Shot
Timing is key when it comes to flu protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting your flu shot in early fall—ideally in September or October. This allows your body about two weeks to build up immunity before flu activity typically increases.
That said, it’s never too late to benefit. Even if the season is underway, you can still reduce your risk of serious illness by getting vaccinated later in the fall or winter. Flu season often peaks between December and February but can last as late as May.
You may want to consider scheduling your shot earlier if you are at higher risk, including:
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
- Young children
Getting vaccinated on time ensures the best protection during the height of flu season, but a flu shot at any point is better than no protection at all.
The Importance of Community Protection
One of the greatest benefits of flu vaccination is something called herd immunity. When more people are protected, the flu virus has fewer opportunities to spread.
This is particularly important for people who cannot get vaccinated due to certain health conditions. By getting your shot, you’re doing your part to create a safer, healthier community.
How to Prepare for Your Flu Shot
Getting a flu shot is quick and easy but taking a little time to prepare can make your experience smoother and more comfortable.
1. Choose the Right Time
As stated above, flu season typically starts in the fall and peaks in the winter. The best time to get your shot is early in the season—September or October—so your body has time to build immunity before flu activity becomes widespread.
2. Eat Beforehand
Having a small meal or snack before your appointment helps stabilize your blood sugar and can reduce the chance of feeling lightheaded, especially if you tend to be nervous about shots.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water supports circulation and can help your body respond well to the vaccine. It may even reduce soreness in your arm afterward.
4. Wear the Right Clothing
Short sleeves or layers that are easy to roll up give your nurse or provider quick access to your upper arm, where the shot is given.
5. Gather What You Need
Bring your insurance card, photo ID, or payment information. Fordland Clinic accepts most major insurances, including Medicaid and Medicare, and also provides affordable options for uninsured patients.
6. Share Your Health Information
Tell your provider if you:
- Have had allergic reactions to vaccines before
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are not feeling well the day of your appointment
Your provider will help determine the best approach for your health and safety.
What to Expect During the Appointment
Most flu shots take only a few minutes. After checking your information, your provider will clean the injection site and administer the vaccine into your upper arm. You may feel a quick pinch or sting, but the discomfort usually passes within seconds. Many people are surprised at how fast and simple the process is.
What to Avoid After a Flu Shot
Once you’ve received your flu shot, your immune system begins building protection. To help your body adjust and to minimize discomfort, it’s best to avoid a few things:
1. Strenuous Arm Exercise
You might feel mild soreness at the injection site. Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise involving your arm for about 24 hours. Light movement, however, can actually help ease stiffness.
2. Skipping Hydration and Rest
Your immune system works best when supported by good sleep and hydration. Drinking water and resting well after your shot will help your body build strong defenses.
3. Alcohol
While moderate alcohol use is unlikely to interfere with the vaccine, avoiding it for a day or two afterward reduces your risk of dehydration and makes it easier for your body to focus on developing immunity.
4. Ignoring Flu Shot Side Effects
Most side effects—like a sore arm, mild fatigue, or a low-grade fever—are normal and temporary. They are signs your body is responding to the vaccine.
However, if you notice more serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately. Severe reactions are rare but important to address quickly.
Myths About the Flu Shot
It’s common to hear concerns about the flu shot, but many are based on myths rather than facts. Here are a few clarifications:
- “The flu shot will give me the flu.” This is false. The vaccine contains inactive or weakened virus components that cannot cause illness.
- “I’m healthy, so I don’t need it.” Even healthy people can catch and spread the flu, and complications can happen to anyone.
- “It doesn’t work, so why bother?” While it’s true that the flu shot isn’t 100% effective, it still greatly reduces your risk of severe illness and complications.
Take Charge of Your Health
The flu shot is a safe, effective, and affordable way to protect yourself and those you love. It only takes a few minutes but can save weeks of illness and discomfort.
Wondering where to get a flu shot? At Fordland Clinic, we’re committed to making healthcare accessible for all. In addition to flu shots, we offer medical, dental, and behavioral health services in a welcoming, patient-centered environment.
Whether you have insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or no coverage at all, we’ll work with you through our sliding fee scale to ensure you receive the care you need.
Call Fordland Clinic today at 417-767-2273 or visit us at 1059 Barton Dr., Fordland, MO, to schedule your flu shot and protect your health this season.