The weather is changing, the leaves are starting to fall and there is pumpkin spice-flavored everything on the store shelves. There’s no doubt about it, fall is here to stay.

The change in season can be a great time of year, but the colder months bring their own challenges when it comes to your health and wellness. Influenza cases are rising already in our community and we want you to stay as healthy as possible this season.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia is here to give you your annual flu shot! Read on to learn more about this important vaccine.

Why Do I Need a Flu Shot Every Fall Season?

The flu is a viral infection, and viruses are known to change and mutate into different strains every season. Even if you have had the flu in past seasons, it doesn’t mean that you are immune to every strain that circulates in our community! Because of this mutation, the flu shot is reformulated a bit every year to better match the most common strains of the season.

The annual flu shot typically has a prevention rate of up to 60%, and this year’s flu shot is already hitting those same numbers when it comes to preventing infection! Getting your flu shot by the end of October is recommended because it takes about two weeks for the shot to develop those necessary antibodies you need to fight the real infection.

Flu Symptoms to Watch for This Year

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Congestion
• Body aches
• Cough

Can I Get Sick After the Flu Shot?

You may feel run down or tired for a day or two after receiving your flu shot, but that doesn’t mean you are getting sick. Your body is simply working hard to create the antibodies you need to avoid actually getting sick later.

Remember, the shot needs two weeks in order to work effectively in your body. If you get the flu during this time period, you were bound to get sick anyway. The flu shot contains bits of deactivated flu virus, so the flu shot cannot give you the flu. We offer the flu shot for anyone ages 6 months and up, so come see us for yours today!

Additional Reasons Why the Flu Shot Matters

• They reduce serious respiratory illness.
• They are updated every year for the best protection.
• They could save your life.
• They protect your family from exposure and our community from large outbreaks.

If you are wondering if your recent illness is the flu, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia.