If you catch the flu, you’re not just hurting yourself.

By Andrea Wright 

Maile, a healthy, active young mother, was planning to get a flu (influenza) shot ... eventually. But with her busy schedule, she figured there was always tomorrow. Then Maile started to experience flu symptoms – congestion, fatigue, headache, muscle aches. She knew she should rest, but first she had to finish a report at work, take the kids to soccer practice, and drop off Auntie Cora’s groceries.

Maile should have made time for the vaccination. By exposing germs to her co-workers, family, and people in her community, she put all of them at risk for the flu virus. Especially Auntie Cora, who is elderly and suffers from a heart condition. Several of the people she infected then infected the people near them, and so on.

Millions of people get the flu each year and thousands die from it. Flu viruses are spread from person to person through sneezes and coughs, which, when circulated into the air, can infect those nearby. People can also become infected by touching surfaces and objects (or someone else’s hands) contaminated by the virus and later touching their eyes, mouth or nose.

Flu vaccinations help prevent this rapid domino effect within communities. They’re safe for most people 6 months or older (consult your doctor first), and flu shots are up to 90 percent effective. 

While most people benefit from the vaccination, flu shots are highly recommended for people who have a greater risk of complications from the flu, such as: 

• Those age 50 and above.
• Those with chronic conditions, especially asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease.
• Those with a weakened immune system.
• Caretakers for those at risk.
• Pregnant women (make sure to consult your doctor first).
• Children and adolescents between the ages of 6 months to 18 years.

Talk to your doctor to ensure that the flu vaccination is right for you. Flu shots are available through your doctor or at participating pharmacies. HMSA is also sponsoring flu shot clinics statewide through the end of the year for HMSA members. Watch for new clinic locations this year. Visit hmsa.com for more information.

Don’t wait too long to get your flu shot this year – your community will thank you.