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About one in five Americans contract the flu each year, which can be fatal for more than 36,000 people and lead to hospitalizations in 200,000 others. At North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care, with locations in Allen, Addison, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, Texas, Frank Lee, MD, and the team offer flu shots for children and adults to reduce the risk of contracting flu or having severe symptoms. Schedule a flu shot by phone or request an appointment online today.
What are flu shots?
Flu shots are injected vaccinations, often containing inactivated flu germs, that help your body create antibodies that protect it from contracting flu or experiencing debilitating symptoms. A flu mist (nasal spray) is available for many individuals aged 2-49 who are not pregnant.
The North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care team also offers COVID shots that protect you against developing COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Who is a candidate for flu shots?
Nearly everyone aged six months and older can receive a flu shot at North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care. However, your specialist might suggest you avoid the flu shot if you may have a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to the shot’s ingredients or have had reactions to vaccines in the past.
To determine if you’re a candidate for flu shots, the North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care team discusses your medical history, lifestyle, risk factors, and goals.
What should I expect when receiving a flu shot?
During a flu shot, simply relax comfortably while your specialist gently inserts a needle into your arm to inject inactivated flu into your body. The injection lasts just a second or so, but you might feel a tiny pinch during the needle’s insertion. You can resume daily activities immediately afterward.
Do flu shots cause any side effects?
Common flu shot side effects include temporary swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. You may develop mild flu-like symptoms — such as a low-grade fever, muscle aches, headaches, or fatigue.
People who receive the flu mist might also develop a headache, runny nose, wheezing, sore throat, a cough, muscle aches, or similar symptoms.
How often should I get the flu shot?
To obtain the most protection against contracting flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests everyone aged six months and older receive a flu vaccine approved by the FDA yearly, particularly individuals at a high risk of severe flu complications. Ask your North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care provider which vaccinations are best for you.
Schedule your annual flu shot at North Tex MedCare Clinic and Urgent Care by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.