Flu season is here and North Carolina is currently one of the states where the flu virus started circulating early and where we are currently seeing “very high” rates of flu infections. Flu can spread and be detected all year long, but it is more common and wide-spreading in the winter months, typically beginning in October and peaking between December and February. It is recommended to get vaccinated by the end of October but is still beneficial later in the year as well.
In the last few years, with the prevalence of Covid-19, the flu season was not as strong as it is showing to be this year. Unfortunately, 2022 has shown early and high flu virus infection rates, with North Carolina being one of the states seeing the highest levels of early infections and even hospitalizations, mostly in children ages 0-4 and adults 65 and older.
How do flu vaccines work?
Flu vaccines work by causing your body to make antibodies about two weeks after vaccination. Since the flu vaccine is updated yearly, these antibodies help protect you against the most prevalent current strains of flu and the illness they cause. All flu vaccines in the United States are “quadrivalent” vaccines, which means they protect against four different flu viruses: including two influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses. The 2022 flu vaccine is expected to provide good protection for the majority of flu viruses that are most likely to circulate in the United States during this flu season. Flu vaccines are typically made from viruses grown in eggs, but for those with egg allergies, there are egg-free options, just let your healthcare provider know.
You can get the Covid-19 and Flu vaccines at the same time, in different arms. You should also know that it is possible to be infected with both the flu virus and COVID-19 virus at the same time. Although it is still possible to get the flu even after vaccination, the vaccine still lowers your chance of severe infection or hospitalization. If you have symptoms that may be either Flu or Covid-19, Med First has combination tests at our locations that can be used to test for BOTH viruses, at the same time.
Med First has vaccines at all 23 locations
This flu season, do all you can to protect yourself and your loved ones by making the flu vaccine a part of your healthcare. With 22 locations across North Carolina, you can find a location that works for you and your family. Make an appointment or walk into any of our locations for your flu vaccine or testing. Whatever you may need, Med First has you covered!
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spotlights/2022-2023/early-wave-hospitalizations.htm