Fall and winter bring cooler temperatures and holiday excitement. But unfortunately, they also bring the flu season with them. 2020 did not experience a spike in flu cases thanks to the masking and social distancing standards set in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. But, as we see some of these safety measures becoming more lax in various states, the chances of uptake in flu cases are much more likely. That means it’s time to take preventative measures with the flu shots in Baton Rouge! Protect yourself and your family from the flu virus and serious complications. Here’s why you should get your flu shots at our urgent care at Lake Urgent Care.
Why Do You Need the Flu Shot?
Recovering from the flu is typically not a walk in the park. Depending on the severity of your case, you may be fighting high fevers, painful body aches, respiratory issues, sinus congestion, and more. This is where the flu vaccine can help! The flu shot was first developed in the 1940s to fight the mass spread of influenza. Each year, the vaccine is updated and reformulated to better protect against the most active strains present in that current calendar year.
The flu vaccine has two purposes: to prevent the spread of influenza and to lessen the intensity of active symptoms. The flu shot aids in the development of flu-fighting antibodies. If the virus enters your system, your body is already better equipped to fight it off. Studies have shown that those who received the flu vaccine lowered their risk of hospital admission due to flu complications by 26%. Getting your annual flu shot may prevent you from catching the virus altogether. Or if you do get sick, it may help your symptoms to be lighter and fight off the development of other flu-related conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis. And besides adding an extra layer of safety to your health, the vaccine may protect others around you, too.
Here’s How You Can Stay Safe During Flu Season
Aside from getting your flu shot, what else can you do to avoid spreading the virus this season? Here are a few pointers:
- Keep your hands clean with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Distance yourself from anyone you know to be sick, or quarantine during recovery if you test positive for the flu.
- Disinfect high-traffic surfaces in your home like door and sink knobs, keyboards, remote controls, and more.
- Cover your mouth with your elbow when you sneeze or cough, and avoid touching your face in general.
These safety measures, especially when paired with the flu shot, can increase your chances of staying well this fall and winter! And if you’re ready to get this year’s flu shot, we provide vaccines for patients four years of age and older at our Lake Urgent Care or Lake After Hours clinics.
Come Get Your Flu Shots at Lake Urgent Care in Baton Rouge
With Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas coming up, don’t let the flu put a damper on the holiday season. Lake Urgent Care and Lake After Hours offer many clinic locations for flu shots around Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. Find your nearest location and check-in online, give us a call with questions, or simply visit our lobby. No appointment is needed for your flu shot. And for those who suspect they may be positive with the flu, we even offer drive-thru testing at the Lake After Hours on Drusilla! Just make sure to schedule a virtual visit first. We look forward to helping you stay safe this fall and winter and keeping the flu out of your holiday plans!