Top Reasons to Get a Flu Shot this Season!

As the leaves start to turn and the cool breeze sets in, it’s not just sweater weather you should be thinking about—it’s also flu season.

Every year, many people ask themselves the same question: “Should I get a flu shot?” The answer is almost always a resounding yes.

Flu shots play a crucial role in protecting your health and the well-being of those around you.

Talk to your doctor or a trusted pharmacist at Rutland Medical Pharmacy if you are unsure if the flu shot is right for you. We offer a variety of immunizations by appointment, and we take walk-ins as well.

Why Is the Flu Shot Important?

The flu is far more than a seasonal nuisance. While many people think of it as just a bad cold, the flu can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death—particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.

By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself from the flu but also help to reduce the spread of the virus in your community.

Vaccination creates a buffer of immunity around people who cannot get vaccinated due to medical conditions. So, when you book a flu shot, you’re not only helping yourself, you’re protecting the people around you.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

The flu shot is recommended for nearly everyone over the age of six months, according to health authorities.

The only exceptions are people with severe allergies to ingredients in the vaccine or those who have had a serious reaction to a flu shot in the past.

There are certain members of the population who should make it even more of a priority to get the flu shot:

Seniors: As we age, our immune systems weaken, making it harder to fight off infections like the flu. Seniors are at higher risk of complications from the flu and should visit a Rutland vaccination clinic to ensure they are protected.

Pregnant Women: Getting the flu while pregnant can increase the risk of serious problems for both the mother and baby. Vaccination during pregnancy has been shown to protect both the woman and her newborn from the flu.

People with Chronic Health Conditions: Those suffering from diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and other chronic conditions are more likely to experience complications from the flu. A quick stop at a local vaccination clinic in Kelowna can reduce this risk.
Children: Kids, especially those under five, are at increased risk of severe flu complications. Vaccinating your children helps keep them healthy during the flu season.

What Are the Benefits of the Flu Shot?

If you’re still on the fence about getting vaccinated this season, you can take into consideration a few key benefits:

1. Reduced Risk of Flu Infection

The flu shot is designed to protect against the most common strains of the flu virus that are expected to circulate each year. While it’s not 100% effective, getting vaccinated dramatically reduces your risk of getting sick. Even if you do catch the flu after getting vaccinated, studies show that your illness is likely to be milder than if you weren’t vaccinated at all.

2. Protection for Your Community

When a large portion of the community is vaccinated, it creates an environment where the flu has fewer opportunities to spread. This is particularly important for protecting those who can’t get the flu shot themselves, such as infants or people with certain medical conditions.

3. Reduced Health Care Costs

The flu doesn’t just make people sick—it also strains healthcare systems. Every year, hospitals see a surge in flu-related admissions. By getting a flu shot in Kelowna, you’re helping to reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system, which benefits everyone. Fewer flu cases mean fewer hospitalizations and medical visits, which translates to lower healthcare costs for both individuals and society.

4. Time Savings

No one likes being stuck at home sick for days on end. Getting vaccinated can save you time by keeping you healthy throughout the flu season. A quick visit to your local vaccination clinic can prevent you from missing work, school, or other important activities due to illness.

How do I Book Myself a Flu Shot?

Rutland Medical Pharmacy offers a robust vaccination clinic. You can get immunizations taken care of via walk-in or by appointment. We offer the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as flu shots, the shingles vaccine and a variety of travel vaccinations.

Sometimes, your primary healthcare provider will offer flu shots. If they don’t, you can book one for yourself or a child using the Get Vaccinated booking link. If you have received the COVID-19 vaccination, you will already be registered in the system. You can also register yourself online here.

When Should You Get Your Flu Shot?

Flu season typically begins in the fall and peaks between December and February, but it can last as late as May. It’s ideal to get your flu shot before the flu starts circulating widely, so aim for early fall.

However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated. Even if flu season is in full swing, it’s still worth getting a flu shot to protect yourself for the remainder of the season.

By getting vaccinated, you’re protecting yourself and contributing to a healthier community. Whether you’re a senior, a parent, or someone with a busy lifestyle, make sure you visit a flu shot provider in Kelowna.