A: Yes, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia.
Flu Vaccination at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
Protect yourself and your community this flu season by getting vaccinated at Rock Ridge Pharmacy. We provide a variety of flu vaccines suitable for everyone aged 5 years and older.
What is Influenza (Flu)?
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can range from mild to severe and sometimes leads to hospitalization or even death. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue.
Types of Flu Vaccines Available
Standard Dose Flu Shots: Approved for people 6 months and older, these vaccines are made with inactivated (killed) viruses.
High-Dose Flu Vaccine: Specially formulated for people 65 years and older, this vaccine contains four times the antigen of a standard flu shot to help create a stronger immune response.
FluBlok: An egg-free, recombinant quadrivalent vaccine for individuals 18 years and older.
Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine: This live attenuated vaccine suits non-pregnant individuals aged 2 through 49.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The CDC recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged 5 years and older, with particular emphasis on:
- Older adults
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic health conditions
- Healthcare workers
Why Get Vaccinated?
Prevention of Illness: Reduces the risk of flu illness, its complications, and potential hospitalization.
Community Immunity: Helps protect more vulnerable populations, including those who cannot get vaccinated.
Potential Side Effects
- Common: Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site; low-grade fever; mild aches.
- Severe: Contact a healthcare professional if severe or persistent symptoms occur.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Allergic Reactions: Avoid vaccination if you have had a severe allergic reaction to any component of a flu vaccine in the past.
- Egg Allergies: Consult with healthcare providers as some vaccines are egg-based.
- Feeling Ill: Wait to get vaccinated if you are significantly ill.
When to Get Vaccinated?
It's best to get vaccinated before flu activity peaks in your area, typically by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flu Vaccination
Visit us at Rock Ridge Pharmacy to get your flu shot. Our team is here to help you stay healthy and informed throughout the flu season.
A: No, the flu shot contains inactivated (killed) viruses or no virus at all and cannot cause the flu.
A: Yes, but vaccination may make your illness milder than if you hadn't received the vaccine.
A: Flu viruses change quickly, so last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year's virus. Annual vaccination helps ensure protection against the most current strains.
A: It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu.
A: Vaccine effectiveness can vary each year but generally reduces the risk of flu by 40% to 60% among the overall population when well-matched to circulating viruses.
A: The most common side effects are mild and include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, and mild aches.
A: Yes, you can receive the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
A: No, the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 but helps reduce the burden on healthcare systems during the flu season.
A: Yes, it is safe for most people with egg allergies. For severe allergies, the vaccine should be administered in a medical setting.
A: Yes, the flu vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and can be given during any trimester.
A: Elderly individuals are recommended to receive a high-dose flu vaccine or an adjuvanted flu vaccine for better protection.
A: Children younger than 6 months and people with severe, life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.