Why it’s Crucial to Get Your Seasonal Flu Shot

The last few years have taught us a lot of lessons. One major lesson is the importance of maintaining good health for yourself, your family and those around you. That is why it is extremely important to get your flu shot.

"Getting vaccinated may not only reduce your chances of getting infected with the flu, but it may reduce the severity of your symptoms if you do get the flu," said Sarah Kennedy, a pharmacist at IU Health Arnett Retail Pharmacy.

"You can get your flu vaccine with other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine," she added. "There's no need to separate them by any length of time."

What is the flu?

Influenza – or the flu – is a contagious and potentially serious respiratory illnesses that can lead to serious complications. Symptoms can include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Muscle and body aches
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Getting a flu shot may not make you completely immune from getting sick, but it can significantly lessen the severity of your symptoms. This reduces the likelihood of needing to take a trip to the hospital, allowing healthcare systems to conserve resources.

View the CDC’s influenza information page regarding the flu virus and vaccinations.