Get Your Flu Shot!
Anissa DeLorenzo
Healthy People 2020 Objective
What You Need to Know
All individuals over the age of 65 should receive a flu shot between the months of October and March (the sooner the better)!
The flu can cause severe illness, inability to complete daily tasks, and even death.
Are You At Risk?
Pre-existing conditions (ex. heart disease, diabetes, COPD) increase your chance of severe illness from the flu.
Morbidly obese individuals are at risk from having complications related to the flu.
Flu Shot Facts
Severe allergic reactions are very rare.
Let your doctor or nurse know if you have an allergy to any components of the flu shot (eggs)!
Fever, body aches, along with swelling or redness at the injection site are potential side effects of the flu shot.
Call your doctor if you experience any of the following after getting the flu shot:
Hives
Breathing Problems
Fast Heartbeat
Dizziness
Weakness
What Does My Flu Shot Do?
1. Decrease your risk of getting the flu.
2. Reduce the severity of illness if you were to get the flu.
3. Decrease the amount of doctor's visits needed.
How Can I Get My Flu Shot?
Most shots are covered under insurance or either Medicare Part B or Part D.
No appointments are needed at your local drug stores (CVS, Walgreens), walk-ins accepted!
Take Action!
2. Have reminders placed on repeat prescriptions.
3. Ask for a brochure on flu vaccinations from your doctor, pharmacy, or clinic.
4. Ask your doctor any questions you have on the safety or effectiveness of the. vaccine
5. Make an appointment with your doctor, or stop by a walk-in pharmacy to get your flu shot!
6. Wash your hands and avoid being around sick people to decrease your chances of getting the flu!
Who Can Help Me?
Your doctor
Your local pharmacy
Your community health department
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/flushot.htm
References
Bakhshi, S., & While, A. E. (2014). Maximising influenza vaccination uptake among older people. British Journal of Community Nursing,19(10), 474-479. Retrieved January 28, 2016.
Seasonal Flu Shot. (2015, September 18). Retrieved February 02, 2016, from http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/flushot.htm
Worasathit, R., Wattana, W., Okanurak, K., Songthap, A., Dhitavat, J., & Pitisuttithum, P. (2015). Health education and factors influencing acceptance of and willingness to pay for influenza vaccination among older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 15(1). Retrieved January 28, 2016.