Fall has arrived, which means flu season has as well. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting your flu shots at Lourdes Urgent Care in Lafayette! Get your flu shot, COVID-19 test, or non-emergency checkup without having to schedule an appointment. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to get this year’s flu shot, here’s why you should.
What Is the Flu?
The influenza (flu) virus is an infection that targets the respiratory system. This flu spreads through airborne droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking. Patients who contract the virus may experience moderate to high fevers, intense body aches, a sore throat, or difficulty breathing. Some also have headaches, nasal congestion, or body chills and sweats.
Children age five or younger are at especially high risk for serious cases of flu, as well as adults over 65. And, people with compromised immune systems, high BMI’s, who live in group settings like nursing homes, or expectant mothers are also at great risk. While suffering through the usual symptoms of the flu can be difficult enough, other conditions may develop as a result of the virus. For those with especially serious cases of the flu, they may also become sick with pneumonia, bronchitis, and other related respiratory issues.
How Does the Flu Vaccine Work?
The flu vaccine was formulated in 1945 to combat the influenza pandemic in the United States. This shot promotes the production of infection-fighting antibodies to combat the virus once it enters the body. Since the flu virus is fast evolving, a yearly update of the flu shot is required. This is why healthcare providers recommend the public get a new shot each year. Anyone six months of age and older is eligible for the vaccine. Children under six months, those with allergies to egg proteins, or those who have had allergic reactions to the vaccine in the past should not get the vaccine. Talk with your doctor about any concerns and see if you are eligible for flu shots in Lafayette!
The flu shot, like the COVID-19 vaccine, is designed to produce protective antibodies within the body. While this increases your chances of warding off the virus, this does not guarantee that you will be free from a case of the flu. However, these antibodies can help your case to be less severe and prevent the development of other serious respiratory complications. To stay ahead of the virus, make sure to wash your hands regularly, social distance as much as possible, and get your family’s flu shots today at the Lourdes Urgent Care in Lafayette.
Get Your Flu Shots Today in Lafayette!
No one wants to get the flu. With the help of the yearly flu shot, you can increase your chances of avoiding the virus. Or, you can lower the chances of having severe symptoms if you have a positive case. Visit our walk-in urgent care today to get your flu shots in Lafayette. No appointment is necessary. Just check in online or fill out your paperwork in our clinic lobby. If you have any questions, contact one of our Lafayette locations or find your closest Lourdes Urgent Care in Louisiana. We look forward to helping you stay safe and well this flu season!