Nurses Corner: September 2018

Flu season is just around the corner. Some important facts you should know to prevent contracting the virus:
 

• Annual immunizations are needed because our body’s immune response to the virus decreases over time and might not offer the protection needed from one year to the next; also, flu viruses are constantly changing and the formulation of the immunizations has to be done each year to make it effective against the current viruses.

 

• Flu is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization, even death.

 

• Even health people can contract the flu and become very sick.

 

• The season can begin as early as October and last until May.

 

• The best way to reduce the risk of contracting the flu is to get vaccinated.

 

• Vaccinations are recommended for those age  6 months and older.

 

• It takes about 2 weeks after receiving the vaccination for the protection to develop.

Most people can get the flu vaccination but factors that can determine suitability for getting the vaccination include: age, health (both current and past), allergies to flu or any of its components. Talk to your physician prior to receiving the vaccination if you have any questions. Places to receive the immunization are at the doctors’ offices, or pharmacies, or free clinics. Check local newspapers for locations.

*This monthly column is courtesy of our parish's Nurse Ministry. To view their Ministry page, click here