I say this every year and this year is no different. If you have not gotten your flu shot yet, please do so ASAP! Now is the time to get it done for full protection from the flu throughout the full flu season. Cases of the flu are already being reported in many states, so don't delay in getting that protection.
There are many, many misunderstandings regarding the flu. For starters, it is not something to simply brush off. According to the CDC, close to 80,000 people in the United States alone died due to complications from the flu in the 2017-2018 flu season. Most of these were the young, elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, but a few were perfectly healthy adults. The flu can kill you!!!
It is true that the flu vaccine is not 100% effective, but even in years when its effectiveness is lower, getting the flu vaccine still provides protection. If you get the flu, the flu vaccine can help diminish the effects of the flu.
On top of protecting yourself, you getting the flu shot protects others who aren't able to get the shot. Some people are allergic or have compromised immune systems and it isn't safe for them to get the shot. Their only protection is herd immunity. They are only protected by others who have received the flu vaccine. The more who receive the vaccine each year, the less likely the flu is able to spread from person to person, thus protecting those who can't get the vaccine.
So please, please, please, please get the flu vaccine. Protect yourself and the others around you who can't protect themselves.
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