Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 200,000 Americans are hospitalized with the flu each year, and at least 36,000 Americans die from it. The flu vaccine is the most effective way for preventing influenza.
Flu Vaccine
The vaccine is created from dead or weakened strains of a flu virus. These vaccines are only designed to treat specific strains. They are not designed to cover all strains of the flu.
How the Vaccine Works
The human body develops antibodies for protection against the specific strains of the flu virus. According to the CDC, it typically takes up to two weeks after receiving the vaccine before antibodies develop.
When to get Vaccinated
The Mayo Clinic recommends getting the flu vaccination between October and November to allow the body enough time for creating antibodies before the flu season begins in December.
Delivery Methods
The most common method for getting the flu vaccination is through injection. Additionally, nasal sprays containing the vaccination have become increasingly popular as an alternative method.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of receiving a flu shot are fevers, body aches, and swelling or redness around the site of the shot. Nasal sprays produce no noticeable side effects.
