FROM STAFF REPORTS

Travel and social events increase during the holidays, giving the flu virus more opportunities to spread.

Dec. 6-12 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, serving as a reminder to all of the importance of getting a flu shot.

Grandview Medical Center encourages people to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the flu.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness. It can cause mild to severe illness, and serious cases can result in hospitalization or death.

“It is crucial for everyone over 6 months of age to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Tracy Jacobs, Grandview Medical Group Family Medicine at Lee Branch. “The flu shot is not guaranteed to prevent the flu, but minimizes your chances of contracting the virus. If you do get the flu, the shot will help minimize the symptoms. It is especially important for young children, adults over the age of 65, and individuals who have a high risk of developing serious complications to get vaccinated.”

Individuals who should not get the vaccine are children younger than 6 months, people who have previously had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine and those with a severe egg allergy. Individuals who have a moderate-to-severe illness, with or without a fever, should wait until they are recovered.

“The flu vaccine cannot cause the flu and a very small percentage of people experience serious side effects from the vaccine,” said Jacobs. “Some may experience mild side effects such as soreness and redness of the injection site and low grade fever and aches. These usually happen after vaccination and are short lived.”

Besides receiving the flu vaccine there are some additional healthy habits that can help prevent people from getting sick.

Wash hands frequently throughout the day, keep hands away from the face and stay away from sick individuals.

Those who are sick, stay at home and allow time to recover.

For more information about flu vaccination, or to find a physician who can help with health concerns, visit Grandviewhealth.com or call 1-844-GMC-DOCS.