Importance of Your Flu Vaccine

Hi!

The flu (influenza) season is here. Are you and your family ready? Here are a few simple tips from MedPlus Pharmacy located in Alexandria Virginia, to help you stay healthy and keep others from falling ill as well. If you have questions about the flu or need to get your shot this season, feel free to give a Medplus Pharmacist a call today.

Chances are that you’ve had the flu, but now it’s time to test your knowledge on the bug that shows up every year.

Flu Facts: What do you really know about the flu?

Fact #1

Most flu activity occurs during January: False

Answer - According to the Center for Disease Control records over 32 years, the peak month of flu activity is February, followed by December and then January and March. The “seasonal flu season” can start in October and can last as long as May.

Fact #2

The flu shot only protects against one type of flu: False.

Answer - Traditional flu vaccines or shots are made to protect against three different flu viruses (called “trivalent” vaccines) are available, and flu vaccines are available that are made to protect against four different flu viruses (called “quadrivalent” vaccines). Depending on your age, your healthcare professional will help you determine which vaccine is best to help you.

Fact #3

The flu vaccine takes a few weeks before it works: True

Answer - It takes your body about two weeks after the flu shot to develop antibodies that protect against the virus from infecting you. Therefore, it’s really important to have your flu shot before the flu season starts.

Fact #4

Can you get the flu vaccine at MedPlus Pharmacy today? YES and we accept all major insurances and if you do not have insurance do not worry because it is only $20!

A $20 flu vaccine is a lot cheaper than a week away from work and all of the over the counter medications you will have to take.

Flu Season: Who’s at risk?

The flu can be a relatively minor occurrence, taking several days in most healthy people. Others however may develop complications from the flu (e.g. pneumonia) that can be life threatening. That’s why it is important to practice good hygiene to help prevent the spread of germs to those at greater risk:

• Children and infants

• Teenagers

• Pregnant women

• Seniors or Elderly

• People with disabilities

• People with health conditions

• Travelers and people living abroad

3 Tips to Outsmart the Flu

1. Get your flu vaccine.

   1. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as the current season’s vaccines are available.

2. Help stop the spread of germs.

   1. It’s simple. Wash your hands with soap and water. Cover your mouth when you sneeze. And, avoid close contact with sick people.

3. Follow your doctor’s orders.

   1. If you get sick and your doctor prescribes flu antiviral drugs, take them and be sure to follow the full course of medication.

Thanks for reading our blog on the benefits of the annual Flu vaccine! Come to MedPlus Pharmacy and receive your annual Flu Vaccine before the season is upon us.

MedPlus is a full service, independent pharmacy located in Alexandria Virginia.

Check back often to learn important pharmaceutical information and updates!

Thanks,

MedPlus Pharmacy

5130 Duke Street

Suite #2

Alexandria, VA 22304

P: 703-751-1111

F: 703-751-1199

E: pharmacy@mplusrx.com

W: www.mplusrx.com

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