A flu shot and COVID vaccine can be checked off your to do list in just five minutes and could save you five days or even more if you come down with either. These days, no one has time to be sick, so we asked Cassidy Tucker, who is a Physician Assistant at the Clio Clinic, to explain why we should get an annual flu shot and/or COVID vaccines.
Check the flu shot off your to-do list today
- Convenience
“Getting a flu shot or COVID vaccine is one of the easiest things you can do for your health,” said Cassidy Tucker, PA-C. You can get both vaccines at the same time, if you choose both vaccines. She explained, it takes just a few minutes and is an easy add-on to an already scheduled appointment. But if you don’t have an appointment coming up, schedule one today. - No worries
There is a lot of misinformation about vaccines effectiveness and safety. But look for facts from credible sources and your doctor. Cassidy assures us that the flu shots are safe, effective and the best protection against the flu. “You cannot get sick from the flu shot; the virus is ‘dead’ so it cannot infect you,” she said.
Many people are leery of the COVID vaccines, but more than 13 billion people worldwide have gotten at least one dose of the COVID vaccine and here in the United States, 82 percent of Americans have received at least one vaccination for COVID. “I always tell my patients it’s better to ask me and talk about your concerns before you decide not to get the flu shot or COVID vaccine,” offered Cassidy. She says there may be reasons why some people should not get vaccinated, so an open conversation with your provider is best. - Protection
The flu shot and COVID vaccine both take about two weeks to help your body build its immunity against the virus’. During that time, take action to avoid others that may have the virus. “If you get ill in those two weeks, you most likely had the virus before you were vaccinated or picked it up before your immunity was strong enough to fight it off,” explained Cassidy.
Cassidy also gave her top prevention tips to limit the spread of the flu and other viruses:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you’re sick, avoid others as much as possible.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. Use your elbow or a tissue.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Keep your hands away from your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- If someone is ill in your household or at work, be sure to clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs such as the flu virus.
- If you are ill, stay home to avoid spreading germs and help your body recover.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Blue Cross Blue Shield
