ADDRESS: 2601 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60026
EMAIL: contact@chestnutsquare.info
TEXT or CALL US TODAY! (847) 998-1118
ADDRESS: 2601 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60026
EMAIL: contact@chestnutsquare.info
With the Delta variant on everyone’s mind and many seniors scheduled to get a Covid-19 booster in the coming weeks and months, it can be easy to overlook the importance of also getting a flu shot this year.
Because last year’s flu season was unusually mild due to widespread masking and social distancing, everyone—particularly seniors—will likely be facing a higher stress test from this year’s flu strain.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GET THE FLU SHOT?
It’s recommended that seniors receive this year’s flu shot in September or October as full protection isn’t achieved until at least two weeks after inoculation. High dose flu shots for seniors are conveniently available at most pharmacies, but be sure to check with your doctor about which option is best for you.
Since the flu vaccine is typically 50% to 60% effective in any given year, this statistic leads many to incorrectly believe that getting the shot isn’t worth the trouble. In reality, even when the vaccine doesn’t completely prevent illness, it will usually lessen the severity and duration of an infection.
For those 65 and over, receiving a flu shot also significantly reduces the chances of hospitalization and other serious complications like pneumonia. What’s more, multiple studies have shown that the flu shot can add an extra layer of protection against a future Covid infection.
COULD THE VACCINE ACTUALLY GIVE ME THE FLU?
The answer to this common question is a resounding no! Because flu shots utilize inactivated virus, there is absolutely no mechanism for it to reproduce once in the body.
However, side effects from the vaccine can sometime produce short-term symptoms that resemble the flu, including muscle aches or a slight fever. These are actually signs that your body’s immune system is at work creating antibodies, and the discomfort typically passes within a day or two.
PROTECTING YOURSELF AND OTHERS
With Covid-19 still in circulation, getting a flu shot this year is more important than ever for the senior population.
Keep in mind that the symptoms of Covid and the flu are often indistinguishable, so if you feel at all sick, be sure to contact your healthcare provider right away and to wear a mask and self-isolate while you recover.
Chestnut Square, an independent senior living community located in the heart of The Glen, features spacious 1 and 2-BR floor plans, a flexible signature dining program, all-inclusive services and amenities, and a 100% refundable entrance fee. Homecare and home health services are also available on-site if ever needed.
To learn more about Chestnut Square at The Glen’s holistic approach to senior well-being, please call (847) 998-1118 or visit www.chestnutsquare.info
ADDRESS: 2601 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60026 | PHONE: 847 998 1118 | EMAIL: contact@chestnutsquare.info