Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious illness affecting numerous individuals in New Jersey every year. The most effective method of preventing yourself and others from contracting the flu is to receive a flu shot annually. Flu season typically occurs between October and May, so get your influenza vaccinations in NJ early to stay safe during the most hectic times and avoid health risks!
Why do we require the flu shot?
The flu shot prevents severe illness, hospitalization, and complications due to flu. Healthy individuals recover from the flu within a couple of days. However, the flu virus can cause severe issues in young children, the elderly, expectant women, and individuals suffering from chronic ailments such as asthma, diabetes, or heart conditions. Vaccination safeguards you and prevents the spread of the virus to vulnerable populations.
Types of Flu Shots Available in NJ
- Standard-Dose Flu Vaccines: These vaccines are recommended for most individuals six months of age and older. They are intended to prevent the most prevalent forms of flu viruses.
- High-Dose Flu Vaccine: Designed for adults aged 65 and above, this vaccine contains more antigens. This enables the body to develop a stronger immune response.
- Adjuvanted Flu Vaccine: It is another option for older adults. It contains an adjuvant that serves to enhance the immune system.
- Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine: A needleless vaccine licensed in healthy, non-pregnant adults aged 2 to 49 years.
- Cell-Based Flu Vaccines: They are manufactured using the new technology and do not use eggs in their production. It makes them perfect for those with severe allergies to eggs.
- Recombinant Flu Vaccine: A safe alternative for people with severe egg protein allergies.
Where to Get a Flu Shot in New Jersey
- Pharmacies: Large chain pharmacies, such as CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, provide flu shots without an appointment.
- Doctor’s Offices: Your physician can administer the flu shot as part of your routine health care.
- Urgent Care Centers: These walk-in facilities provide flu shots to individuals who may not have a primary physician.
- Community Health Clinics: Most neighborhood health departments will give uninsured free or low-charge flu vaccines.
- Workplace Vaccination Programs: Certain employers offer flu clinics for the workers at the workplace.
- Schools and Universities: Flu vaccines are administered to students and staff by several schools and colleges as a measure to avoid epidemics.
Best Time to Get Vaccinated
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise receiving the vaccine by October since it takes two weeks for your body to become immune. However, flu shots are still available throughout the season, and you can still get vaccinated later and be protected.
How effectively does the flu shot work?
The flu vaccine is reformulated annually to protect against the most common virus strains. Though it may not always prevent illness, it significantly decreases the severity of symptoms and risk of complications. Vaccinated patients may be less likely to require hospitalization and recover faster than unvaccinated patients.
Myths Surrounding the Flu Shot
Even though influenza vaccinations in NJ have clear benefits, many misunderstandings still exist. Here are some common myths explained:
- Getting a flu shot will give you the flu.” The flu vaccine is not made with live viruses and cannot infect you with the flu. Some people might have a little soreness at the injection site or a low fever, but these are temporary and much less severe than the flu.
- “I never get the flu, so I do not need the vaccine.” Although you may have never had the flu, over time your resistance to fighting off the flu could decrease. Further, you may be a virus carrier and transfer it to others.
- “I received the flu shot in the past year, so I don’t need it this year.” The flu virus changes yearly, so a new shot is produced each year to provide optimal protection against the current strains.
- “Flu is not harmful.” Flu can lead to serious complications, hospitalization, and death, especially in high-risk patients.
Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine
Most individuals have no or minimal side effects from the flu vaccine. Mild side effects are most commonly experienced as:
- Redness, swelling, or pain on the site of injection
- Mild pyrexia
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Headache
Severe allergic reactions are rare, but anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction to the flu vaccine should consult their doctor before receiving the vaccine again.
Who Should Avoid the Flu Vaccine?
The flu shot is safe for the majority. However, certain individuals need to discuss it with their doctor before administration of the injection.
- Individuals with severe hypersensitivity to components of flu vaccines (e.g., gelatin, antibiotics, or egg proteins)
- Individuals who experienced a severe reaction to a previous flu vaccine
- Individuals who have gone through Guillain-Barré Syndrome (an uncommon immune condition)
Get Vaccinated and Stay Safe This Flu Season!
Flu shots are crucial to making everyone healthy and preventing the flu from spreading. By receiving timely influenza vaccination in NJ, you can reduce your risk of becoming extremely ill, protect more vulnerable individuals, and keep your community healthy. If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, visit your neighborhood pharmacy, doctor’s office, or health clinic today to protect yourself during flu season!