By: Nina Arnold, MPH, ACM-RN, CHWC
Manager, Care Management
Influenza, commonly referred to as “the flu” is a virus that led to a pandemic in 1918 resulting in an estimated 21 million deaths. After FDA approval, Flu vaccines were first administered to the public in 1945.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older in the US get a seasonal flu vaccine, particularly individuals:
- with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
- over 65 years of age
- children younger than 5 years of age
- individuals at a higher risk of serious flu-related complications
Flu symptoms include one or more of the following: cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, feeling tired, or feeling feverish/having chills. Symptoms can come on suddenly and last 3-4 days and impact people of all ages.
Preventing the flu is key to avoid feeling unwell and experiencing potentially serious health issues. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a seasonal flu vaccine EVERY year by the end of October. Everyone 6 months and older is eligible. The flu strain changes from year to year which is why it is important to receive the flu shot each year. Influenza antibodies arise in the body within two weeks of being vaccinated and help protect people from getting infected with the flu.
According to the CDC, during 2024-2025, “all flu vaccines in the United States will be trivalent vaccines.” This means the trivalent vaccine will include three different flu strains, resulting in protection against three different flu viruses: an influenza A(H1N1) virus, an influenza A(H3N2) virus, and an influenza B/Victoria virus.
Contact your primary care provider now to schedule your flu vaccine or check your local pharmacy for vaccine schedules.
Additionally, prevent the spread of influenza by preventing the spread of germs. Wash your hands with soap and water, cover your coughs and sneezes, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Now is the time.
