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NOVEMBER 2021
Why is the flu shot important?
Flu season is well underway. If you haven’t already gotten your annual flu shot, now is the time to get it. Flu shots are available — at no cost to you — at any Costco pharmacy. If you don’t have a Costco pharmacy within 25 miles, you can also get a free flu shot from an in-network provider.
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Getting vaccinated will help protect you from the discomfort and potential complications of the influenza (flu) virus. It will also help keep your family, friends and co-workers safe and healthy during flu season.
Influenza (the flu) is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly in young children, older adults and people with certain medical conditions. Getting the vaccine — though not 100% effective — is the best way to prevent the misery of the flu and its complications.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone age 6 months or older.1
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This year’s flu shot will offer protection against four of the influenza viruses expected to be in circulation this flu season. High-dose flu vaccines will be available for adults age 65 and older.
It takes up to two weeks to build immunity after a flu shot. But you can benefit from the vaccine even if you don’t get it until after the flu season starts.
Still not convinced you should get a flu shot?
Take a look at these five common myths about the flu and flu shots.
#1. Flu shots can cause the flu.
The flu shot is made from an inactivated flu virus. It cannot make you sick.
#2. Flu shots don’t work.
Studies show that the flu shot reduces the risk of getting the flu by 40–60%.
#3. Flu shot side effects are worse than the flu itself.
The flu shot can cause side effects — mild aches, fatigue, headache or fever. The flu can cause serious illness lasting days or weeks.
#4. Healthy people don’t die from the flu.
Influenza (the flu) is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and death, even in healthy people.
#5. I never get the flu, so I don’t need to be vaccinated.
Being fortunate in the past doesn’t mean you’ll be so lucky this year.
Who needs the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is especially important for people at high risk for complications, including:
- Pregnant women
- Older adults
- Young children
- People with weakened immune systems
Chronic medical conditions also can increase your risk for complications from the flu. Examples 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
Anyone with a chronic medical condition or living in a nursing or other long-term care facility should also get the flu vaccine.
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Influenza vaccination: a summary for clinicians. Accessed October 5, 2021.
Source: Mayoclinic.org. Flu shot: Your best bet for avoiding influenza. Accessed October 5, 2021.
Vaccinations are an important way to help you and your family stay healthy. We’re here to support you with these and other resources you need for your well-being journey.