With COVID-19 still a concern across Nova Scotia, family doctors are asking everyone in the province to receive a flu vaccine. It is more important than ever that aged six months and older need to be vaccinated against the influenza virus.
According to Dr. Leslie Ribeiro, a rural family physician in Middleton, it’s important to get the flu shot to protect oneself from getting very sick, to protect those around them as they will be less likely to spread the flu, and to help decrease burden on the health-care system. Dr. Ribeiro gives flu shots to patients each autumn.
“If the flu virus enters your body, your body recognizes it quickly and deals with it before the virus has a chance to replicate itself,” says Dr. Ribeiro. “But last year you might not have run into this virus, so your immune system may be slower to protect you and then it’s too late – you get sick.”
Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect everyone not just yourself. Misinformation about getting flu from the vaccine will not help you from getting or spreading the virus.
Everyone is encouraged to be vaccinated because multiple shipments will be arriving in the coming weeks. It will be available to walk-in clinics and pharmacies so, there’s no reason not to get the flu shot!
For more information on this article visit https://www.yourdoctors.ca/blog/healthy-living/flu-shot
Reference: https://www.yourdoctors.ca/
