Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot
It Is Still Very Important to Get Your Annual Flu Shot
New variants of the COVID-19 coronavirus, influenza, and other viruses will be circulating and spreading over the coming months. Flu and other viral infections can trigger asthma attacks and a worsening of asthma symptoms. Influenza also can lead to pneumonia and other acute respiratory diseases.
The best way to stay healthy this coming season is to be current on all vaccinations, including influenza, COVID-19, and, for some, the new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Flu shots are available to AllergySA patients at all 3 locations. Although the influenza vaccine is recommended for most children and adults, it is especially important that our patients with asthma, chronic sinusitis, and immunodeficiency receive their yearly flu shot. Patients between the ages of 6 months and 65 years should visit their AllergySA office to receive the 2023/2024 influenza vaccine. (It is recommended that patients over the age of 65 receive the high-dose influenza vaccine, which AllergySA does not administer. Please visit your primary care physician or local pharmacy.)
No appointment is necessary; however, you should be a current patient. Flu shots can be given to most immunotherapy patients 20 minutes after receiving your allergy injection. Protection from the vaccine begins about two weeks after the injection and is thought to last for the influenza season.
Protecting You, Your Family, and Your Community
Being current on all vaccinations, including flu and COVID, will not only protect you and your family, but also the community. Recently the CDC recommended the new vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for people over the age of 60, for those with certain chronic medical conditions, and for those who are pregnant. Consult your PCP or ObGyn to see if this vaccine is indicated for you.
During the coming months, our healthcare system may become overwhelmed treating patients with flu, COVID-19, RSV, and other viruses. By getting vaccinated, we can hope to decrease the utilization of our healthcare system, preserving resources for those that need it most.
Stay Healthy!
If you have not been seen recently, now is a great time to schedule an appointment with your AllergySA provider. The better your baseline health going into this season, the better you will be able to fight any infections that come your way.
* Please note that some insurance plans may not cover the influenza vaccine if received in our office. You may prefer to visit your primary care practice for this year’s flu vaccine. Please check the coverage of your specific insurance plan. If your insurance does not cover it, and you receive the vaccine from AllergySA, you will be required to pay the out-of-pocket expense.
