Self-Defense: Why flu shots make sense

Self-Defense: Why flu shots make sense

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Every year, as summer ends and the cold season prepares to blow in, the debate begins regarding whether or not a flu shot is necessary. The answer, according to Kaiser Permanente pediatric expert, Dr. Victor Perez, is always “yes.”

“You should get an annual flu shot because influenza changes each year, and so does the vaccine,” advises Dr. Perez. “It’s wise to get it every single year. Even if you managed to avoid the flu last year, you need to have recurring protection. Last year’s protection is not enough.”

Administered by inhalation, injection or a nasal spray for those ages six months to 18 years, the flu shot can protect you from various types of influenza viruses, such as the H1N1, which has seen a rash of outbreaks in recent years, he says.

Unless you have a specific reason to believe that you could have a severe, life-threatening reaction to the vaccine itself, suggests Dr. Perez, don’t put off receiving your flu vaccination.

The best time to get one is between August and October, advises Dr. Perez. “Getting it during these months allows your body time to build its protection as you get into actual flu season, which often begins to peak in December, but can also hit us earlier.”

The vaccine is especially critical if you are in regular contact with a baby under 6 months old or the elderly, since those people are at higher risk for serious complications from the flu.

For people with certain conditions, such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes, heart disease or those with a history of stroke or cancers, avoiding the flu shot can mean facing increased health risks, says Dr. Perez. “If they get the flu, their chances of getting seriously ill are more severe than the general public.”

Access to the shot is widely available. The flu vaccine is readily available at no cost for Kaiser Permanente members, says Dr. Perez. It’s also administered by various civic and health organizations throughout Southern California.