LaBELLE, FL - The Florida Department of Health in Hendry County encourages everyone to get their flu vaccine before Halloween.
Dr. Nancy Witham is the Medical Director for the Health Departments in Hendry and Glades Counties. She has been a medical provider for over 25 years and has always recommended the annual flu vaccine. Dr. Witham provided some answers to common questions regarding flu, the vaccine and prevention.
Q – What is the recommendation for getting a flu vaccine?
A - Yearly flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended strongly for parents and all caregivers of children younger than 6 months of age to help prevent flu infection in those too young to take the vaccine themselves.
Q – What are recommendations for people 65 and older?
A – The enhanced or high-dose flu vaccine is available for people over 65 which is designed to create a stronger immune response.
Q – How do flu vaccines work to protect me?
A – Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about 2 weeks after Vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with circulating flu Viruses.
Q – When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?
A – It is recommended that everyone over 6 months should be vaccinated by the end of October; “Flu Vaccine Before Halloween”.
Q – Is it safe to get a flu vaccine along with a COVID-19 vaccine?
A – Yes, you can get a COVDI-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time.
Q – Can the flu vaccine give you the flu?
A – NO, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The flu shot (injection) does not have a “live” virus in it. All flu shots are inactivated vaccines.
Q – Are there other types of flu vaccines?
A – There is a nasal-spray type called Flu-Mist. It is made from a weakened but live flu strain, and it is considered a “live” virus. Talk to your healthcare provider BEFORE receiving this type to make sure it is right for you.
Q – What are side effects from getting the flu vaccine?
A – While the vaccine cannot give you the flu, some side effects are possible. Soreness, redness and/or swelling where the shot was given Headache, fever, muscle aches, nausea, and fatigue. Side effects are minimal and don’t last long.
Q – Where can I get the injected flu vaccine (flu shot)?
A – Talk with your healthcare provider, but most healthcare providers and pharmacies provide flu vaccines. The health departments provide free flu vaccines to children under the age of 18. Most insurances cover the cost for adults.
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