Take A Flu Shot For Me

By Cameron Goodman

It’s everyone’s least favorite time of the year here in Michigan, (no not winter) but flu season. The busy college life that most students lead with little amounts of sleep and high volumes of stress definitely takes a toll on the human body, and when you mix in the possibility of getting the flu, well that’s when all hell breaks loose.

Here are some reasons why everyone should jump on the flu shot bandwagon:

·      The flu is not just a normal cold!

·      Over the counter antibiotics will not save the day on this one. They only fight bacterial infections, and the flu is a viral infection

·      Flu season is October to May, so there is still time/hope for you to get vaccinated

·      The easiest places to catch the flu are when you are in close proximity to many people, especially in school environments

·      You could catch it if you touch anything that has been sneezed/coughed on by someone with the flu, so if you aren’t a recluse you could be at risk

·      The flu strands change each season, so it isn’t enough to get a flu shot every couple years. Prepare and protect yourself for each season

·      You could contaminate people near you who are prone to illness, which could cause them to be extremely sick if they got the flu

·      The myth of the flu shot not working is false. It is most definitely the best protection and reduces risk of other health issues

·      For those afraid of getting a shot there is also a nasal spray option

·      There are many convenient locations near most anyone where you can receive a flu   
shot. Local drug stores like CVS and Walgreens offer them, along with the standard doctors offices, and much more.

So if you don’t want to have to spend your days with a runny, raw, red nose or coughing onto the people next to you in your lecture hall, do yourself a favor and get a flu shot (for all of us).



For more flu vaccine information visit: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm