Now is the time to protect yourself from influenza – the flu. Millions of people suffer from the flu each winter. Though it can be a mild illness, the flu can be life-threatening for older adults and people of any age who have chronic health conditions. Pregnant people are also at high risk.

In an average year, the flu leads to thousands of deaths nationwide, and many more hospitalizations. But you can protect yourself by getting vaccinated. Although the vaccine can’t prevent every case of the flu, it’s your best protection. And if you do get sick, your symptoms may be milder.

How the Flu Vaccine Works

Flu viruses occur in many varieties. Every year, scientists predict which flu viruses will be most common in the coming months. Then they make a vaccine targeting those viruses.

The scientists’ predictions turn out to be more accurate in some years than in others. What happens if the viruses in the vaccine and those going around a few months later aren’t a perfect match? The vaccine can still be helpful. That’s because a vaccine targeting one virus may offer at least some protection against similar viruses.

Why You Need the Vaccine

Everyone ages 6 months and older can be protected by the vaccine. Any flu infection can lead to serious complications, hospitalization or death, even in healthy individuals. Therefore, getting vaccinated is a safer choice than risking illness to get immune protection.

A flu vaccine is especially important for people who are more likely to be hospitalized or even die if they get the flu. This includes children younger than age 5 – especially those younger than age 2, people ages 65 and older, pregnant people and people with certain chronic conditions. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website for a more complete list of people who are at greater risk for flu complications.

Even if you don't fall into any of the higher-risk groups, you should still get the vaccine if you want to prevent the flu.

When to Get Your Flu Shot

Talk with your healthcare provider before getting your flu shot. September and October are the best times to get your flu shot, but it’s not too late to get vaccinated even through December to make sure you’re still protected.

From now through Nov. 22, 2024, vaccines are available for walk-ins at Aultman Medical Group North Canton Medical Center, located at 6046 Whipple Ave NW, Entrance C. No appointment is necessary for flu vaccines from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you are looking for a primary care provider, many Aultman Medical Group practices are accepting new patients. Visit aultman.org/NewDoc to find a provider, or call the new patient hotline at 330-433-1264 for assistance with scheduling your appointment.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The StayWell Company, LLC