As flu season rolls around, many people start to wonder — is it really necessary to get a flu shot every single year? If you’re generally healthy or haven’t had the flu in years, it might feel optional. However, skipping your annual vaccine could leave you and those around you more vulnerable than you think.
At Prima Medicine, our team offers solutions to protect you and your loved ones. With same-day and weekend appointments, we ensure you can get vaccinated on your schedule.
If you’re on the fence about receiving a flu shot this year, this blog offers valuable insights about the vaccine’s benefits and who should get it.
Why the Flu Shot is an Annual Essential
The influenza virus evolves rapidly. Each year, the circulating strains are slightly different from those of the previous year. That’s why the flu vaccine is reformulated annually. It’s adapted to match the strains that are most likely to spread during that season.
Getting your yearly flu shot helps your immune system stay up to date and ready to fight the specific viruses that are expected to circulate during the upcoming season. The vaccine also reduces the severity of your symptoms if you do get sick and lowers the chances of experiencing complications, such as pneumonia or hospitalization, especially for high-risk groups.
Who Should Get a Flu Shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises everyone six months and older to receive a flu shot each year, unless their physician tells them otherwise. This vaccine is especially important for:
- Adults 65 and older
- People with chronic conditions (diabetes, asthma, heart disease)
- Pregnant individuals
- Caregivers and healthcare workers
- Children under 5 years old
Even if you’re young and healthy, getting vaccinated still matters. Your choice helps protect the more vulnerable people around you, like aging parents, coworkers with health conditions, and babies younger than six months.
Get Your Flu Shot at Prima Medicine
Don’t let the flu disrupt your life this fall and winter. Call Prima Medicine at (703) 870-3750 or book online to get your flu shot at one of our Northern Virginia locations: Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, or Tysons. Protect your health and your community with one simple step.
