With flu season around the corner, I made it a priority to get my yearly flu shot.

My pediatrician always makes it vital that I get my shot so that I am protected against any contagious viruses. 

There are many benefits of the flu shot. It reduces flu illnesses by 40%- 60%, it also protects against influenza, and helps with symptoms if the flu is contracted. 

There was a study conducted by the Centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) that proved that if you contract the virus there is a significant reduction in the severity of symptoms. 

“A 2021 study showed that among adults hospitalized with flu, vaccinated patients had a 26% lower risk of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and a 31% lower risk of death from flu compared with those who were unvaccinated.” CDC

Although it can vary from person to person, there has been high protection for those vaccinated. Personally, I have been surrounded by many sick people and I have not been affected by their illnesses.

It was mainly the flu that I was surrounded by and I think that the shot highly protected me from getting sick. 

The process was extremely simple and painless. I walked into my pediatrician’s office and he simply gave me the shot and within two minutes I was out.

There were no symptoms after the shot either beside a little soreness, everything was completely fine the days following. 

Within the area, if you would like to receive a flu shot of your own, progressive urgent care and the CVS in Annandale all provide flu shots.

I highly recommend staying active and getting vaccinated during this season as many are getting sick and it is important to build your immunity so that you can combat any illnesses with ease.

There are also other vaccines available such as the covid vaccine to help build immunity.