Don't Miss Your Shot to Fight the Flu!

By Shelby Bell

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cautions of a potentially severe Influenza season this year in the United States, so the Allegheny County Health Department is taking preventative measures by educating the public about the flu.

The flu season typically runs from October through May, with the peak often coming in February. Since the vaccine is most effective in the first six months following the shot, the best time to get it is before the end of October. Cases can occur as late as May, so even people who don’t get it in October should still get it later in the season. Getting the vaccine not only protects the individual, but their family and their community.

The CDC is warning of a severe flu season because last season was abnormally mild, the result of the pandemic and the onset of social distancing and masking. The Health Department advises the public to wash their hands regularly, get vaccinated, cover up when coughing and keep those masks handy. Masking protects you when you are healthy and others when you are sick.

Studies show that 8 percent of the population will get influenza and have symptom – which means approximately 100,000 residents of Allegheny County will become ill with the flu. Others will get it and show no symptoms but could still be contagious. Being healthy in all aspects – by eating healthy, getting proper rest, exercising regularly and reducing stress – can help boost the immune system, reduce the chance of getting sick and lower recovery time.

Finally: the flu vaccine has been around for almost 80 years, but we understand that some people have questions and concerns. We are here to listen and to provide evidence-based answers. Knowledge is power, and we want everyone to have the correct information when deciding what’s best for themselves and their loved ones.

For answers to frequently asked questions about the flu and the vaccine, visit AlleghenyCounty.us/Influenza or contact us at 412-578-8062.