It is common for people to mistakenly think that the flu is only a mild stomach virus or a bad cold. However, there are certain strains of the flu that are extremely serious and in some situations can lead to lengthy hospitalizations and even deaths. A Flu Shot Vaccine can prevent you from getting certain strains of flu, such as influenza, which is serious, life-threatening type of flu. Some of the symptoms of the flu are similar to a common cold, such as cough, fever and sneezing, but these symptoms are more severe with the flu.
Along with these symptoms you may also experience extreme muscle aches, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea as well as the inability to eat or drink. A Flu Shot Vaccine from Midwest Express Clinic is available in two different types; a traditional vaccine and a Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV). A tradition flu vaccine is known as an inactivated vaccine, which does not contain a live virus. A Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine contains a weakened, live virus. The traditional flu vaccine is typically given through an injection and a LAIV is administered through a nasal spray.
The LAIV is only approved for people who are healthy and between the ages of 5 to 50. The injection is approved for anyone who is over the age of 6 months.Both the flu shot and the nasal spray vaccine are designed to work by developing antibodies to defend your body against the influenza flu strain. The antibodies are exposed to the virus from the vaccine, which helps them attack an invasion of the flu.
Most physicians recommended that people get a flu shot once a year to build up the antibodies necessary to fight the influenza flu during flu season, which is typically from November to April. The flu vaccine does not work right away, so it is important to get the vaccine prior to flu season. It is important to talk with your doctor about getting a vaccine, especially if you are elderly, work around large groups of people or have a medical condition that puts you at a higher risk of contracting the flu.
