5 Important Benefits of an Annual Flu Shot

At Triad Internal Medicine in Asheboro, North Carolina, our team of board-certified providers regularly advocates for the importance of preventive care. One of the most effective preventive measures we recommend? The annual flu shot. 

Some people might question whether a flu shot is important, but the annual flu vaccine offers multiple benefits that not only protect you but those around you as well. Here are the top five reasons why rolling up your sleeve can make all the difference to your health.

1. Reduces the risk of flu and its complications

We've all been there: battling the fever, cough, and muscle aches that accompany the flu. It's no walk in the park. But did you know that a simple shot can significantly decrease your chances of getting infected? 

Clinical studies show that the flu vaccine reduces the risk of getting sick with the flu by between 40-60%. Moreover, if you do catch the flu after vaccination, the severity of your illness will likely be reduced. 

This means fewer hospital visits and, most importantly, a lower risk of flu-related complications that can lead to severe respiratory issues and, in rare cases, death.

2. Protects vulnerable populations

Have you ever considered that your flu shot can help protect your loved ones? Babies, elderly family members, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the flu's harmful effects. 

By getting vaccinated, you reduce the chance of transmitting the virus to them. Talk to your Triad Internal Medicine provider for more details about how the flu shot helps protect others. 

3. Saves time and money

No one enjoys being stuck in bed, missing out on work or school, or missing important social events because of the flu. The flu shot helps lower your risk of this happening. 

Beyond the physical discomfort, having the flu can be a financial burden. Hospital visits, medications, and missed work days all add up. 

By getting a flu shot, you're investing in a preventive measure that can save both your health and your wallet in the long run.

4. Contributes to community health

Ever heard of herd immunity? It's when a large portion of a community becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of the disease less likely. 

Even those not eligible for certain vaccines—like infants or people with certain allergies—get some protection. When you get your flu shot, you're playing a crucial role in building this community shield against the flu, making outbreaks less likely.

5. Every year is tailored to new flu strains

The flu is constantly evolving, producing new strains year after year. Thankfully, every flu season, researchers and healthcare providers work tirelessly to identify these strains. 

The annual vaccine is then tailored to combat the most prevalent ones, ensuring you get up-to-date protection against this ever-changing virus. Talk to your Triad Internal Medicine provider if you have questions about the flu shot. 

Be proactive and get your shot!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have set clear guidelines about the annual flu vaccination. Here's what you should know:

According to the CDC, everyone in the United States aged 6 months and older should receive an influenza (flu) vaccine every season, with very few exceptions. Different influenza vaccines are approved for various age groups, so no matter your age, there’s a flu shot for you.

At Triad Internal Medicine, we prioritize your well-being. As such, we encourage you to adhere to the CDC's guidelines for the flu vaccine. If you haven't had your flu shot yet, remember it's better to get it earlier in the season rather than later, but better later than not at all! 

Ready to get your annual flu shot? Schedule an appointment online or over the phone at Triad Internal Medicine in Asheboro, North Carolina, today.