As the winter months approach, so does flu (or influenza) season. We all know how incredibly contagious the flu is. Nobody wants to feel the fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue that go along with it. While most folks recover from the flu within a week or two, it can be serious for some, leading to hospitalization and even death. Fortunately, IDA Drug Marts offer easy-access flu shots all season long.
“The flu vaccine has important benefits. It can reduce flu illnesses, reduces the need for doctors' visits and ER visits, as well as make symptoms less severe and reduce flu-related hospitalizations and deaths in people who get vaccinated but still get sick,” explains Taryn Reid, Pharmacist at IDA Drug Marts.
The Benefits of Flu Vaccination
Flu shots are proven safe and effective. Each year, a new vaccine is developed in order to keep one step ahead of the ever-evolving virus. Some of the main benefits of an annual flu shot include:
- Reduces Flu Illnesses: The flu vaccine significantly lowers your chances of getting sick with the flu.
- Fewer Doctor Visits: Getting vaccinated can reduce the need for doctor's visits and trips to the emergency room.
- Milder Symptoms: If you get the flu after being vaccinated, your symptoms will likely be less severe.
- Hospitalization and Death Prevention: Flu vaccination reduces the risk of hospitalization and death from flu complications.
“The flu virus changes over time, so the annual flu shot is important as protection from previous years' vaccines diminishes over time,” says Taryn. “The shot is a safe and effective for those without previous reaction to the vaccine. It is a way to reduce the risk of getting sick and will lower the chance of severe symptoms if you are in contact with the virus.”
Stay Healthy This Season
In addition to getting a flu vaccine, there are several additional ways that you can keep yourself and those around you healthier.
“People can stay healthy by practicing good hand hygiene, getting enough sleep, eating a well balance diet, and staying physically active. Avoid contact or wear a mask around sick individuals and sanitize frequently touched surfaces,” suggests Taryn.
Book Your Flu Shot at IDA Drug Marts
IDA Drug Marts offer convenient access to flu vaccinations for anyone older than 5 years old, including the senior’s flu shot for those older than 65.
“Our clinics offer flu vaccine, education on flu prevention, and advice on managing symptoms. We can also provide antiviral treatments for individuals who have tested positive for influenza A or B or have been instructed by the public health unit to get treatment in response to an outbreak,” says Taryn.
Remember, the flu virus changes each year, so even if you received the flu shot last year, getting vaccinated again this season is essential.
Book your flu shot at any of these IDA Drug Mart locations:
Wellington Square
(705) 945-8088
Queenstown
(705) 949-7331
Market Mall
(705) 253-1121
Urban Square
(705) 759-4818
Pine Shores
(705) 649-6393