6 Reasons to Get a Flu Shot This Season

As flu season approaches, you might be weighing the pros and cons of getting a flu shot. The truth is, this simple vaccination offers big benefits for you and those around you. Here are six reasons why getting a flu shot should be on your to-do list.

First, Let’s Put An End To This Myth

We know what you’re thinking, but you can’t get the flu from a flu shot! We get it: After your flu shot, you may feel achy. That’s your body creating flu antibodies, which help you fight the flu if you’re exposed and keep you from spreading the flu to your loved ones!

Reasons to Get Your Flu Shot

1. Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Getting a flu shot doesn’t just keep you safe; it helps protect the people around you. While you might experience mild symptoms, others – like young children, older adults, and those with health conditions – could face serious risks. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping to prevent the flu from spreading to vulnerable family members, friends, and coworkers.

2. Reduce Severe Illness and Hospital Visits

The flu can hit hard, causing high fevers, body aches, and severe complications like pneumonia. For some, these complications lead to hospital stays. Getting a flu shot helps reduce the chance of developing severe symptoms, which means you’re more likely to avoid the worst of the flu season. By protecting yourself, you’re also helping to reduce the burden on our healthcare system, which can quickly become stretched during flu season.

3. Strengthen Your Immunity

One of the best benefits of the flu shot is that it boosts your immune system. For people with conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, the flu can be particularly risky. By getting vaccinated, you’re giving your body the tools to fight the flu, helping you stay healthy and strong.

4. Updated Protection Each Year

Flu strains change every year, so last year’s flu shot won’t fully protect you from this year’s viruses. Luckily, the flu vaccine is updated annually to keep up with new strains, ensuring you have the best defense against the flu each season.

5. Easy and Accessible

These days, getting a flu shot is easier than ever. You can walk in any Grady center Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and get your flu shot. You can also find vaccines at pharmacies, local clinics, doctor’s offices, and even some workplaces. Many flu shots are free or covered by insurance and only take a few minutes. With so many convenient options, protecting yourself against the flu is simple.

6. Quick Action, Long-Lasting Benefits

The flu shot is quick and low-effort, but its protection can last the entire flu season. Think of it as a small investment of time for months of peace of mind. You’ll reduce your risk of getting sick, so you can enjoy the season with fewer worries.

Make This Season Healthier with a Flu Shot

Grady makes getting your flu shot easy. The cost is based on your insurance plan or $10 if you don’t have insurance. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the hospital or any of our neighborhood health centers. For more information, visit gradyhealth.org/flu.