Flu season is here. With all the flu shot clinics open around the Parkland, should you get a flu shot?
Most people get confused about whether they’re sick with the flu or just a common cold. Colds are easy to beat and rarely lead to complications, whereas the flu has more severe symptoms and can lead to complications leading to hospitalizations or death.
Dr. Mahmoud Khodaveisi says that getting the flu shot is not only important for your health, but it’s also important for the health of the people around you.
If someone who is immunocompromised contracts the flu, it can lead to more severe symptoms and a more lengthy battle with the virus.
It is recommended that anyone six months of age or older get the flu vaccine, especially if they have chronic conditions like heart disease, asthma, diabetes, or if they are pregnant.
The flu vaccine isn’t mandatory, so if you do decide not to get it, you have that option.
Khodaveisi adds that an effective way to help stop the spread of the flu is to wash your hands properly, stay home if you have symptoms, and wipe down any surfaces that a sick person has touched.
Manitoba has one of the lowest vaccinations rates for the flu shot in the country
