Flu season 2023: Facts about the influenza vaccine

Influenza, or Flu, season is here and that means taking extra precautions to ensure you and your loved ones are safe. Getting a flu vaccine every year can keep you from getting sick and serve as a preventative measure for people with chronic health conditions. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to make antibodies, which attack and destroy viruses. Everyone ages 6-months and older should get a flu shot - especially essential workers and those at increased risk for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

Schedule a Flu Vaccine

Flu vaccine appointments are fast and easy. To schedule a flu vaccine appointment, call or text "FLU" to (405) 632-6688.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness. It can also make people who already have health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) worse off. Remember - the flu shot is the greatest defense against infection, especially for young children and individuals with chronic illnesses.

The flu shot is recommended for adults, children 5 months and older, and pregnant women. 

Variety Care Flu Vaccine Events

Variety Care is hosting several flu vaccines clinics in Fall 2023. See below to schedule an quick and easy appointment.

Flu Facts

The flu vaccine is a safe, effective way to help prevent getting sick during flu season.

• The flu vaccine protects against the most common strains of flu.
• People who receive flu vaccines are less likely to need emergency care or be admitted into hospitals.
• The influenza vaccine cannot make you sick with the flu virus. The virus is killed to make the vaccine (inactivated) or a single protein from the flu virus is used.
• Flu vaccines help protect pregnant women during and after their pregnancy.

Where to get a flu vaccine:

Variety Care offers flu vaccines at all locations. Call us at 405-632-6688 to schedule yours today or request one at your next doctor appointment.

When to get a flu vaccine:

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), individuals should get a flu vaccine before flu begins spreading in their community - typically September or October. It takes two weeks for a person to be protected from the flu after getting a vaccination.

It's especially important for those with chronic health conditions to get an influenza shot. These individuals have a higher risk of developing complications from the live flu virus. Chronic conditions include:

• Asthma
• Cancer or cancer treatment
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Heart disease
• Cystic fibrosis
• Diabetes
• Brain or nervous system conditions
• HIV/AIDS
• Kidney or liver disease
• Obesity

It's important to get a flu vaccine every year because flu viruses adapt and evolve rapidly. A new vaccine is released every year to provide people with the best possible protection. Don't delay getting your flu vaccine. Call Variety Care at 405-632-6688 to schedule yours today or request one during your scheduled appointment.

Learn more about the Flu Vaccine

2023 Flu Season

It’s flu season and you might be wondering if it is safe to get the flu shot when you are also getting the COVID-19 vaccine, including the booster shot. Don’t worry. Here are five things to know about flu and covid-19 vaccines that will answer your questions.

1. Can you get the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine at the same time?

Yes. According to the CDC, the COVID-19 vaccine may be administered at the same time as other vaccines, including the flu vaccine. Both vaccines are safe and may be offered at the same time, including the COVID-19 booster shot. The flu and COVID-19 are contagious and serious respiratory illnesses that spread quickly and easily. Receiving both vaccines can maximize protection and reduce the risk of experiencing serious respiratory illness. 

2. When should I get the flu shot?

Seasonal flu starts in early October and it is recommended that people receive the flu shot before the end of October. This gives the body time to build immunity and you won’t be put at risk during the peak of flu season. There were less cases of the flu in 2021 due to a year full of social distancing, mask wearing, and proactive protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. However, the reopening of businesses and activities can cause an increase in this year’s flu cases. Protect yourself and your family and get the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine.

3. Who can get the flu shot?

The flu vaccine is safe for individuals 6-months and older. Getting vaccinated against the flu every year and practicing good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds are the best ways to reduce your risk of getting sick with seasonal influenza.

4. I'm pregnant. Should I get a flu shot?

Yes. Pregnant women should receive a seasonal flu shot. There has been a long history of pregnant women receiving the flu shot with great safety records. The CDC recommends pregnant women receive the flu vaccine, NOT the live attenuated vaccine. Receiving the flu vaccine can reduce more serious health risks accompanied with the influenza in pregnant women. Fortunately, Variety Care offers pregnancy care, including prenatal, post natal, and newborn care. Consult with a doctor for find out what is best for you and your baby.  

5. Where can I get the flu shot?

Variety Care offers the flu vaccine to all individuals, with or without insurance. You can register for the flu shot by calling 405-632-6688. To learn more about the flu vaccine, visit varietycare.org/flu.  

Call today to make an appointment.

405-632-6688