National Influenza Vaccination Week was December 2-8, 2018. The NIVW provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals, health advocates, communities, and families to work together to promote the flu vaccination before the traditional winter peak in flu activity.
Flu seasons are unpredictable and can begin early in the fall and last late into the spring. By focusing on one week in early December, advocates can bring together resources and reach people before flu season swings into full gear.
The flu is more than just a “bad cold” and can result in serious health issues such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. In some cases, the flu can even lead to death. All people are at risk for serious flu-related complications and certain groups are at higher risk. People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, and people 65 years and older.
Flu viruses are continuously changing, and this season's vaccines have been updated to protect against the viruses that will be most common this year. Additionally, your immune protection from a vaccine declines over time, so annual flu shots are needed for the best protection against the flu.
With flu activity increasing and family and friends planning gatherings for the holidays, now is a great time to get a flu vaccine if you haven’t been vaccinated yet this season. A flu vaccine can protect you and your loved ones from getting the flu.
Request an appointment today and get your flu shot before the flu gets you!