Why Is Taking a Flu Vaccine Every Year Important?

             Written by: Dr. Nitika Makhija

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms include fever, cough, and body aches.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The flu virus changes frequently, which means last year’s vaccine won’t necessarily protect you from this year’s strains.

Here’s why it’s important to get vaccinated each year:

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The flu virus evolves constantly, and each year’s vaccine is formulated to target the most common strains expected during the flu season.

Updated Protection

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The vaccine can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms, making your illness milder and recovery faster.

Reduced Severity

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

By getting vaccinated, you help protect those more vulnerable to severe flu complications, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women.

Protection For Vulnerable Groups

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Annual flu vaccination helps prevent the spread of the flu within your community, reducing the overall number of infections and hospitalizations.

Preventing Spread

Photo Credit: Shutterstock