JACKSON, Miss.- It’s time to get your flu shot, and your local pharmacy can help.
Flu season tends to increase throughout October and November but can peak from December through May. Getting a shot can keep you protected, but you want to get it as soon as possible because it can take up to two weeks to be fully protected after the shot.
“The CDC recommends that everyone protect themselves against the flu by getting their annual flu shot,” said Tanya Shackleford Director of Clinical and Professional Services for Fred’s.”Especially the elderly, pregnant women and young children who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the flu and could end up hospitalized.”
A local pharmacy or doctor can answer any questions on what type of flu shot you should get and provide other tips for staying healthy during the sick season.
“You want to do whatever you can to stay healthy, like wash your hands regularly. Washing your hands does protect against the spread of infection,”said Shackleford.
Shackleford said many people choose not to get the flu shot because they say they’ve never had it before. However, statistics show that up to 20 percent of Americans get the flu every year and can often have symptoms that take up to two weeks to recover.
