In an effort to prevent a bad flu season like last year, doctors are urging people to get their flu vaccines right now.
Eric Cox, MD, with BSA CareXpress says it is important to get the flu vaccine early because you aren’t protected for up to two weeks.
“After you receive the vaccine, it takes about two weeks for your body to respond and produce the antibodies,” Cox explained. “Your immunity will last throughout the flu season regardless of when you receive the vaccine.”
Cox also said even though last years vaccine wasn’t a great match, it still helped reduce the severity of symptoms. He also stressed that it’s impossible to get the flu from the flu shot.
“You do hear some people complaining of a low-grade fever, but it’s not the flu,” Cox said. “That’s the immune system responding to the vaccine in the body.”
“Children who need two doses of vaccine to be protected should start the process sooner,” said Cox. “Those two doses must be given at least four weeks apart, so parents need to keep that in mind.”
“All BSA CareXpress Urgent Care clinics in Amarillo and Canyon have the vaccine available,” said Trevor Spradling, BSA CareXpress Vice President of Operations. Most insurances cover the entire cost of the flu shot. No appointment is necessary and patients can also check-in online at www.carexpressfmc.com to reduce their wait time.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year. Flu shots are approved for use in pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.
People can go to any of the following CareXpress locations to get a flu shot: 2701 South Georgia, 34th and Coulter, 1400 S Van Buren St., 2329 Ross Osage Dr. or 911 23rd Street in Canyon.