Every year, millions of people in the United States get the flu. For many, it’s more than just a week of feeling run-down. The flu can lead to serious illness, especially for older adults. If you’re living with a chronic condition like diabetes, heart disease, or lung problems, a case of the flu can trigger dangerous complications or even land you in the hospital.
The good news is that there’s something simple you can do to protect yourself: get your flu shot each year.
Why the Flu Shot Is Especially Important for Seniors
As we age, our bodies change. One of those changes is a weaker immune system. That means it’s harder for your body to fight off infections like the flu. Even if you’ve always bounced back quickly from illnesses in the past, the risk grows as you get older.
Getting your flu shot gives your body a head start. The vaccine trains your immune system to recognize the flu virus and fight it more effectively. That means if you do get sick, your illness will likely be milder and shorter in duration. More importantly, you’re less likely to face dangerous complications.
Doctors have found that seniors who get the flu shot have fewer hospitalizations and fewer serious health events like heart attacks and strokes. If you already live with a chronic condition, the vaccine can also help prevent flare-ups that make your condition harder to manage.
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions
You may hear different opinions about the flu shot from friends, neighbors, or even on TV. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths.
Some people believe the flu shot can actually give you the flu. This is not true. The vaccine does not contain live flu virus and cannot cause flu illness. You might feel a little achy or tired afterward, or even run a slight fever. That’s simply your body building protection—it usually goes away in a day or two.
Another common belief is, “I got my flu shot last year, so I don’t need one this year.” The truth is, the flu virus changes from year to year. Scientists update the vaccine annually to match the latest strains of the virus. That’s why one shot isn’t enough to protect you for life—you need a new one each flu season.
You may also think, “I never get the flu, so why bother?” Just because you’ve been lucky in the past doesn’t mean you’ll stay lucky forever. Think of your flu shot like wearing a seatbelt. You might drive for years without ever needing it, but when an accident happens, it can make all the difference.
The Flu Is More Serious Than a Cold
Some people think the flu is just a bad cold, but that’s not the case. The flu can cause high fevers, body aches, severe fatigue, and chest discomfort, which can keep you in bed for days. For older adults, it can also lead to pneumonia, worsening of chronic conditions, and other serious complications.
Each year, tens of thousands of Americans die from flu-related illnesses, and most of them are adults over 65. By getting your flu shot, you’re taking a powerful step to lower your risk and keep yourself healthy.
Protecting the People You Love
Your flu shot doesn’t just protect you—it helps protect the people around you, too. When you’re vaccinated, you’re less likely to spread the virus to your family, friends, and community.
This is especially important for people who are unable to get the flu shot themselves. Babies younger than six months are too young to be vaccinated. People with certain medical conditions may not be able to get the shot either. By protecting yourself, you’re also protecting those who are most vulnerable.
When and Where to Get Your Flu Shot
Doctors recommend getting your flu shot every fall, before flu season peaks. It takes about two weeks after your vaccination for your body to build full protection, so the sooner you get it, the better.
Flu shots are safe, widely available, and often covered by insurance or Medicare. At Chen Senior, your doctor and care team are ready to answer your questions, address any concerns, and make sure you get the protection you need.
Take Action This Flu Season
You work hard to stay healthy and independent. Don’t let the flu put that at risk. Getting your flu shot is one of the easiest ways to protect your health, avoid hospital visits, and keep enjoying the things you love all year long.
Talk to your doctor today about your flu vaccine. Protect yourself, protect your loved ones, and stay strong this flu season.
Not a Chen Senior patient yet? Visit a center near you to learn more about how our doctors can help you stay healthy year-round.
