National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 2-8, 2018
information provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (December 3, 2018) – While it’s best to get vaccinated against the flu in October, flu shots can still be effective later in the season. Flu activity is usually highest between December and February, and can last as late as May.
“Even healthy people can get the flu,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D. “And while healthy people may not suffer serious illness from the flu, they can pass the virus to babies too young to be vaccinated, people who have chronic illnesses, and others who may develop serious health problems like pneumonia. Before you get together with grandkids and grandparents for the holidays, make sure you not only protect yourself from the flu, but your loved ones as well.”
Flu symptoms can include fever or feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, tiredness, and some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Flu is typically spread by droplets when someone with the flu talks, coughs, or sneezes. People can also get the flu by touching something, like a door handle, that has the virus on it and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose.
On average, it’s about two days after being exposed to the flu before symptoms begin. However, you can pass the flu to someone roughly a day before you start experiencing those symptoms, and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.
Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctor visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. It may also make your illness milder if you do get sick.
To find a location to get a flu shot in your community, check with your health care provider or local health department, or use the online Vaccine Finder.
