Why You Should Get the Flu Shot

It’s that time of year, the air is cooling, the leaves are changing, and the germs are spreading. And no matter how much Lysol we spray or Chlorox wipes we use, someone always ends up getting sick. Especially if you have school-age kids, those are some germy little critters. But one thing I always do and have for the last few years is get my flu shot. I figure hey, one more thing in the line of defense can’t hurt, right?

I know this can be a hot topic, and each mama must decide for herself. If you are the fence here are some excellent reasons to consider getting your flu shot.

You could die if you don’t.

While the flu is super common, it always brings with it some nasty complications like dehydration, worsening of chronic illnesses, bacterial pneumonia, and ear or sinus infections.

You save money.

Let’s talk copays, prescriptions and missed time from work. All of these things could have been prevented with a flu shot.

Your friends and family will thank you.

No one wants to be the butthead that got everyone sick because they refused the flu shot. Do those a favor and get the shot. Remember some people can’t get the shot and you getting the vaccine helps protect them too. The virus spreads quickly, so do your part to minimize it.

You are pregnant.

My ob/gyn highly recommended getting the flu shot when I was pregnant with both of my kids. She said if I didn’t and ended up with the flu she would hospitalize me. That’s all the motivation I needed. The actual flu shot is considered safe for both mom and baby, but avoid the nasal spray if you are expecting.

Here some flu shot tips to keep in mind.

To increase your odds of staying healthy, get the vaccine sooner. Flu season starts typically sometime in October and can last until May, so it is important to get vaccinated early.

It’s not common to have serious side effects. A few possible side effects from the vaccine are possible, such as a headache, stuffy nose or a sore throat. Most people encounter no side effects. If you do, they should only last for a day or so. Which in comparison to the flu itself that typically lasts for one to two weeks and the symptoms can be severe, the flu shot is a better option.

You get a tailor-made flu shot every year. Prior to the start of each flu season, the CDC determines which strains of influenza appear to most likely to happen that year. This year though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that this year’s vaccine might be less effective than prior years because the virus has mutated. The vaccine will still lower your chances of getting certain strains of the virus. But if you do get sick, having the vaccine can significantly reduce the severity of your symptoms. And that’s a plus because the flu sucks.