AACE Advancing Immunization Quality Improvement Communication Platform-Brown Lifespan no-excuses-flu-vaccine-print

Brown Lifespan no-excuses-flu-vaccine-print

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This document emphasizes the importance of getting a flu vaccine and addresses common concerns and misconceptions. It states that even healthy people can get seriously ill from the flu, and recommends flu vaccines for everyone aged 6 months and older. It highlights that pregnant people, young children, older people, and individuals with certain chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of complications from the flu, making it especially important for them to get vaccinated annually. <br /><br />The document assures that flu vaccines are safe and have been given to millions of people without major issues. The most common side effects are mild and should not be mistaken for the flu itself. It also clarifies that getting the flu vaccine does not guarantee immediate recovery, and others around you may still be at risk. <br /><br />It emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated before flu begins to spread, as it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection. The document explains that although flu vaccines cannot give you the flu, there are reasons why you might still get flu-like symptoms after vaccination, such as exposure to non-flu viruses or being exposed to a different strain of the influenza virus. <br /><br />The document advises against avoiding the flu vaccine due to a fear of shots, citing that the minor pain of the shot is worth it to avoid the suffering caused by the flu. It mentions that there are alternative options like nasal spray or intradermal shots for those who prefer them. <br /><br />Lastly, the document emphasizes the need for an annual flu vaccine because flu viruses constantly change, and a person's immune protection from the vaccine decreases over time. It provides information on where to get a flu vaccine, such as doctor's offices, clinics, retail stores, pharmacies, and health centers, and includes a website and helpline for more information.

Keywords

flu vaccine

importance

common concerns

complications

pregnant people

annual vaccination

side effects

spread prevention

immune protection

vaccine effectiveness