According to a new report from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, too many people are not getting the flu vaccine.
Last year, less than half of all Americans got vaccinated.
Flu vaccines could saves tens of thousands of lives, but many people don’t get them because they hear things about the vaccines that are untrue, said NBC4’s Dr. Bruce Hensel.
Young people, the elderly, pregnant women, people with underlying illnesses and health workers are especially encouraged to get the vaccine.
“While those groups need it most, the vaccine is actually recommended for all people over the age of six months who don’t have an egg allergy,” Hensel said.
According to Hensel, getting the vaccine will prevent 60 to 90 percent of all flu cases, and in turn, save tens of thousands of lives. It also protects against H1N1 and other flu bugs.
Contrary to popular belief, the vaccine does not cause the flu. It may cause body aches or other side effects, but it does not cause the flu.
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The flu vaccine can be given by shot or through a nasal mist. Those ages 2 through 49 can opt for the nasal mist, and anyone who doesn’t have an egg allergy can be given the shot. If you are ill, wait to recover before getting the vaccine.
Because flu season is just around the corner and because the vaccine takes three weeks to work, Hensel urges people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
