Flu Shot: When Can You Get One?

This fall will be the first time that COVID-19 and the flu come face-to-face with each other. Health experts are uncertain how the two will react to one another, but one thing is certain: a flu shot will be vital this year. This flu season is bound to be very confusing with the overlapping coronavirus symptoms. This means that if you have a flu shot, you will be able to have a better understanding of what may be going on if you start showing symptoms. If you are eager to get a vaccine, you will need to know when and where to get a flu shot. 

What Is a Flu Shot & How Does It Work? 

A flu shot is a vaccine that helps you gain immunity from the influenza virus, which is the cause of the flu. Flu shots are typically given through a shot in the arm. Patients could instead receive flu mist through their nasal passage, but this method is less effective than the flu shot. 

A flu shot introduces your body to small parts of different flu viruses. This will trigger a reaction from your immune system. Your immune system will realize that the virus particles should not be able to get into your body and will figure out how to destroy them. Through this process, your body learns and remembers how to fight the viruses and can do the same in the future.

Side Effects of a Flu Shot 

Just as many medications come with labels warning of side effects, the flu shot can cause some minor side effects as well. The most common side effect from any shot is tenderness in the area you were injected. This should quickly go away, but if it is hurting you a lot, place an ice pack over the affected area. You can expect to experience flu-like symptoms from a flu shot, such as fever, congestion, or hot flashes. This does not mean that you have the flu, but instead means that your body is in the process of producing protective antibodies.

When and Where to Get a Flu Shot

According to the CDC, you should plan on getting a flu shot before flu viruses spread in your community. Their recommendation is that you get a flu shot by the end of October. Even if you cannot get a flu vaccination in October, you should still get one later on. Even if it is the middle of the flu season, a vaccine will still protect you for the rest of the season. 

Some people may think that getting vaccinated earlier in the summer will protect them throughout the entirety of the flu season. However, this could be associated with reduced protection later on in the flu season. For children needing two doses of the flu vaccine, they should begin the vaccination process sooner, as they will have to wait four weeks between each dose. You can get a flu vaccine at a regular doctor’s office. You can also get them at a health department, pharmacy, urgent care clinic, workplace, or school health center.  

Flu Shot Near Me 

If you are searching for a location giving out flu shots in Walnut Creek, BASS Urgent Care is located in the Shadelands area. Not only do we offer flu vaccinations, but we also offer care for those who already have the flu. Our facility follows the CDC’s guidelines for cleanliness and is low-risk, making it safe to enter and exit. To book an appointment with BASS Urgent Care visit our website. Or give us a call at (925) 329-3718.