Flu season is here, which means it’s time to get your flu shots from Holy Cross Urgent Care! Your family can receive their flu shots today at our Fort Lauderdale or Coral Springs locations. But while we understand the benefits and importance of the flu vaccine, we also know that many myths have been circulated that may make you question whether or not you should get your shot. Let us debunk those myths and share the facts about the vaccine.
Myth #1: If I Get the Flu This Season, I Don’t Need the Flu Shot After Recovery
When you catch the flu, your immune system immediately begins fighting off the virus. This creates some immunity or protection against the flu. However, this does not mean that you are protected from the strains that are currently being spread. For those who are unvaccinated, you risk contracting a case of the flu with serious symptoms and complications. In some cases, this can even lead to hospitalization or death. Getting your flu shots from our urgent care in Fort Lauderdale or your closest provider can help you and your loved ones to stay safe this flu season.
Myth #2: The Flu Shot Can Make You Sick With the Flu
This is false. The flu vaccine is created with inactivated flu virus. Or in some cases, the recombinant flu vaccine may utilize a single protein from the flu called hemagglutinin. Once injected, the flu shot works within the body to train your immune system. First, your body will create antibodies to fight off the protein introduced from your vaccine. Then, if you contract the active virus later on, your body will have already built some immunity against it. So while you are introducing the flu into your immune system, you are only strengthening your defenses—not creating an active case of the flu.
Myth #3: Flu Shots Protect You From COVID-19
The flu and COVID-19 are two separate viruses. And, each has its own vaccine that is specifically formulated to help individuals build immunity against them. This means that if you are vaccinated for COVID-19, you are not protected from influenza, and vice versa. Both vaccinations can help you to stay well and avoid serious health concerns. And, they can help to slow the spread of these viruses to others. If you need flu shots or COVID-19 tests in Fort Lauderdale, visit the Holy Cross Urgent Care today!
Myth #4: I’m Healthy, So I Don’t Need a Flu Shot
Influenza is a highly contagious disease and can have serious, even life-threatening symptoms. And while you may be in good health and better equipped to fight off serious cases, you can still be a risk to those around you. When a healthy person contracts the flu, they may have a lighter case, or they may not show symptoms of the virus at all. However, they can still actively spread it to others, especially those with weaker immune systems. Not only does the flu shot help you to prevent getting sick in the first place, but it also helps you protect others from the virus.
Find Flu Shots Today in Fort Lauderdale
If you are ready to get your flu shots, our urgent care in Fort Lauderdale is ready to assist. Visit our clinic in Rio Vista today to protect yourself from the flu! Check-in online or give us a call at 954-764-6646 with any questions. We look forward to helping you and your loved ones stay well this season!