As your dedicated healthcare provider at Irongate Family Practice, we are deeply committed to your well-being, focusing on preventative care to help you stay healthy and avoid illness. With flu season approaching, we want to emphasize the importance of annual flu vaccinations. The flu is not just a common cold; it can be a serious and even life-threatening condition. Getting your yearly flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Why is the Flu Shot Important?
The flu vaccine offers significant protection against influenza viruses. Receiving your annual flu shot from Irongate Family Practice can:
- Reduce your risk of getting sick: The flu shot significantly lowers your chances of contracting the flu.
- Lessen the severity of illness: Even if you do get the flu after vaccination, your symptoms are likely to be milder and the duration shorter.
- Protect vulnerable populations: Vaccination not only protects you but also helps to prevent the spread of the flu to those more susceptible to serious complications, such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
- Safe and effective: The flu shot uses an inactivated (“killed”) virus, meaning it cannot cause the flu. It is safe for most people, with only minor side effects like temporary soreness at the injection site being possible.
When Should You Get Your Flu Shot at Irongate Family Practice?
The optimal time to get vaccinated is from mid-September through November. However, because the flu season can extend into April, getting vaccinated as late as February can still provide valuable protection. Irongate Family Practice offers convenient flu clinics to make it easy for you to get vaccinated. You can also receive your flu shot during any scheduled appointment with your provider. Don’t delay in ensuring your health is protected this flu season.
Who Should Get the Flu Shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. It is especially crucial for certain groups, including:
- Adults aged 50 years and older
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular disease (excluding hypertension)
- Women who will be pregnant during the influenza season
Important Information Regarding Flu Shots
While the flu shot is safe and recommended for most, there are a few exceptions. Please inform your Irongate Family Practice provider if you:
- Have a history of severe allergic reaction to eggs or a previous flu shot.
- Have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome.
If you have received a flu shot elsewhere, such as at work or another clinic, please inform Irongate Family Practice with the date of vaccination so we can update your medical records accordingly.
Protect yourself and your community this flu season. Contact Irongate Family Practice today at 518-793-4409 to schedule your flu shot appointment or respond to this portal message, and we will call you to arrange your visit. We are here to help you stay healthy!
In Health,
Your Irongate Family Practice Providers
