Get Vaccinated Now to Beat the Flu

Autumn is synonymous with many wonderful seasonal changes — the arrival of colorful leaves, holidays and cozy sweaters, to name a few.

However, autumn also means that flu season is on its way, and there’s only one way to beat it.

“Getting influenza vaccine is by far the best thing to do,” said Dr. Jessica Rosen, an assistant professor of medicine at Georgetown University.

The vaccine is available at clinics and retail pharmacies across the Washington area and the average cost for those without insurance ranges from $10 to $50. It was made available in August and the early availability could prevent a vaccine shortage because the demand is spread out.

“When you get the flu shot, you’re protecting others around you as well,” said Dr. Stephen Haering, health director of the Alexandria Health Department.

The upcoming flu season may not be as severe as years past. If the virus is the same strain as last year, people vaccinated last season might have retained some protection. Nevertheless, it is still suggested that everyone over the age of 6 months get the vaccine, because flu season can be unpredictable.

“You never know when the flu is going to get bad,” said Debra Mayberry, director of the Arlington Urgent Care Center and a registered nurse. “There’s no rhyme or reason. We’ve had flu as early as August and we’ve had it as late as February.”

Experts say it’s best to get vaccinated early, since the vaccine takes two weeks to take full effect.

People can also protect against the flu by washing their hands and trying to maintain a restful, low-stress lifestyle and a healthy diet.

Anyone who does catch the flu should stay home from work.

“Don’t go into work if you’re sick,” Mayberry said. “Your boss may think that you’re wonderful coming into work sick, but when the rest of the office ends up out the next week, they’re not going to be real happy with you.”

Symptoms include high fever and body aches. Although the flu is a virus, it can be treated with medication that shortens the course of the illness. It’s important to treat the virus as soon as possible, because the flu can lead to bacterial infections such as pneumonia, and can even require hospitalization.

Get vaccinated now to enjoy a healthy, hospital-free flu season.