MIAMI VALLEY, Ohio — You might be young and generally healthy, but healthcare professionals caution that the flu can still take you by surprise.
As the temperatures drop and folks start staying indoors more, doctors from Greene County Public Health are recommending that everyone think about getting their flu shots this fall.
“The virus doesn’t discriminate; it does its job by attaching to our mucosal cells and the lining of our upper airway, and it can spread downwards, sometimes reaching deep into the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia,” explained Dr. Don Brannen, an epidemiologist with Greene County Public Health.
The CDC suggests getting vaccinated in September and October since flu activity often rises in November. In the Miami Valley, he anticipates a moderately severe increase.
Dr. Brannen also highlighted some everyday preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing and keeping a safe distance from ill individuals.
“Some of the best ways to protect yourself are the things you teach your kids, like washing your hands after touching something dirty, and before meals. If someone’s sick and sneezing, it’s best to stay about six feet away from them. And if you’re feeling unwell, wear a mask when you’re in public to safeguard others,” he noted.
According to him, Miami Valley has already experienced a rise in flu cases just last week.
For children who require two doses, parents are urged to get the vaccinations sooner rather than later so that the second dose can be administered by the end of October. Health experts mention that it takes roughly two weeks post-vaccination for antibodies to develop.
Moreover, Dr. Brannen advised adults aged 65 and older, as well as individuals with weakened immune systems, to consider getting vaccinated without delay.
He mentioned that a common misunderstanding is that the flu shot actually causes the flu.
“People often say the vaccine gives them the flu. This isn’t true. You might feel some soreness where you got the shot or experience a slight fever due to antibody production. The vaccine helps your body to create antibodies that can protect you against the virus,” he said.
Additionally, he pointed out that having had the flu in the past doesn’t guarantee immunity from it again.
“Even if you’ve been infected before, the flu virus changes from year to year,” he noted. “Currently, the strains circulating are a bit different from those seen in previous years. So staying updated with your flu vaccine is crucial to ensure you have the best possible match with the viruses out there.”
He advised that if you do get sick with the flu before receiving the vaccine, it’s best to wait about a week before getting vaccinated.
Ultimately, doctors stress that understanding your risk and taking preventive actions before falling ill can really help during flu season.
