Flu Season Is Here: Get Your Shot Soon

Influenza, a contagious respiratory infection, typically begins with sudden symptoms including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches. While most recover within two weeks, complications like pneumonia, sepsis, and worsened chronic conditions can arise, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months of age and older. Ideally, vaccinations should be received in September or October to ensure protection before the flu season intensifies. While vaccine effectiveness can vary, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.