According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Flu season” in the United States can begin as early as October and last as late as May. As a result October is typically the time people get immunized for influenza or better said, get their flu shots.
In Ferndale, flu shots are now being offered at Haggen Pharmacy, Walgreens and Rite Aid stores on Main Street with no appointment necessary. Most health insurance plans cover the cost for flu shots as preventative care.
New this year, the Ferndale High School is hosting a “flu shot clinic” that will be available to Ferndale School District faculty, staff, students and their families. Click the link for details.
During recent flu seasons, between 80% and 90% of flu related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older.
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Click for more informationMore from the CDC:
While seasonal influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, during most seasons influenza activity peaks in January or later. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against influenza virus infection, it is best that people get vaccinated so they are protected before influenza begins spreading in their community.
The viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from a flu shot. Some minor side effects that may occur are:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
- Fever (low grade)
- Aches