The benefits of getting your flu shot

Cooler temperatures bring many things, including the arrival of fun and festive holidays. But flu season also kicks into high gear between the months of December and February.

Although flu season runs from October to May, a combination of factors during the chilliest months of winter, such as increased time indoors in close proximity to others who may be ill, tends to escalate the rates of flu infection. Also, the CDC says cold, dry conditions make it easier for the virus to spread.

Individuals can take different steps to reduce their risk of contracting the flu, which includes frequent handwashing, keeping a distance from others who are sick and eating a healthy diet to help boost the immune system. Getting an annual flu shot is another notable and highly beneficial strategy to beat the flu:

• Reduces risk of getting the flu – The primary reason to get a flu shot is to train the body’s immune system to recognize and fight off the most common strains of influenza anticipated in a given year. During seasons when the shot is a good match, individuals who get it can reduce their risk of flu contraction by 40% to 60%.

• Lessens severity of the flu – For those who do get the flu, being vaccinated means the illness is likely to be less severe than it might be for those who are not vaccinated.

• Prevents serious conditions – The flu can be dangerous to vulnerable populations, but the virus also can lead to health problems like inflammation of the heart or brain, pneumonia or the worsening of conditions like asthma and diabetes. By getting the vaccine, one can reduce their risk of these serious outcomes.

• Offers protection to pregnant women – Pregnancy increases risks posed by the flu. The flu shot can reduce the chances of flu-related hospitalization for pregnant women. Also, the mother’s antibodies to the flu will be passed to the fetus, helping to protect the newborn baby for several months during a time when the infant is too young to be vaccinated.

• Protects kids – A flu vaccine can significantly reduce a child’s risk of pediatric intensive care unit admission and even death from the illness.

The idea of getting pricked by a needle isn’t pleasant, but a flu vaccine is an important tool in building immunity to a common wintertime foe.