A: Yes, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia.
Get Your Flu Vaccine at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
Protect yourself and your community this flu season by getting vaccinated at Rock Ridge Pharmacy. We offer various flu vaccines, including Flucelvax for those aged 5 to 64 years and Fluad High-Dose for individuals 65 years and older. Our convenient location and expert care make it easy to stay protected all season long.
What is Influenza (Flu)?
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can range from mild to severe and sometimes leads to hospitalization or even death. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue.
Types of Flu Vaccines Available at Rock Ridge Pharmacy
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, we offer a variety of flu vaccines to meet your needs this flu season. Our available vaccines include:
Flucelvax: A cell-based flu vaccine designed to protect against four influenza virus strains. Suitable for individuals aged 6 months and older, Flucelvax offers robust protection.
Fluad (High-Dose): Specifically formulated for individuals 65 years and older, Fluad contains an adjuvant and a higher dose of antigen to enhance the body’s immune response, providing stronger protection against the flu.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The CDC recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, with special focus on:
- Children aged 6 months and older: Young children are at higher risk of severe flu complications, including hospitalization.
- Older adults (65+): Seniors are more vulnerable to serious flu-related health issues.
- Pregnant women: Flu shots protect both the mother and the unborn baby, reducing flu-related complications.
- People with chronic health conditions: Those with conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems are at increased risk.
- Healthcare workers: Those in medical settings should get vaccinated to protect themselves and their patients.
- Caregivers and close contacts: Anyone caring for infants, elderly, or those with health issues should get vaccinated to help prevent flu transmission.
Why Get a Flu Shot?
- Flu shot protection: Safeguard yourself and loved ones from serious flu complications.
- CDC flu vaccine recommendation: For everyone aged 6 months and older.
- Reduces flu risk: Flu vaccination lowers the chance of illness by 40% to 60%.
- Decreases illness severity: Flu shots help reduce serious flu symptoms.
- Prevents flu-related hospitalizations: Essential for those with chronic conditions.
- Protects high-risk groups: Flu shots shield children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of a Flu Shot?
- Flu shots are generally safe, but like any vaccine, they can cause mild side effects. Common side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, headache, and muscle aches. These symptoms usually go away within a day or two. Serious side effects are rare but may include an allergic reaction. If you experience severe symptoms, contact a healthcare provider. Overall, the benefits of flu vaccination far outweigh the potential risks, providing essential protection against the flu.
Flu Shot Precautions and Contraindications: What You Need to Know
- Before getting a flu shot, it’s important to know the precautions. Those with severe allergies to flu vaccine components like eggs or gelatin should avoid it or consult a doctor. If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu shot or have a Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) history, talk to your healthcare provider. Reschedule your vaccination if you're sick or have a fever. Though rare, flu shot complications can include pneumonia, sinus infections, or myocarditis. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure the flu shot is safe for you.
When Is the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?
The best time to get a flu shot is early in the fall, typically by the end of October. Flu season usually peaks between October and May, and it takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protection. Getting vaccinated early ensures you're protected before flu activity increases. However, flu shots can still be beneficial later in the season, especially if the flu is still circulating. Stay protected all season by getting your flu shot at Rock Ridge Pharmacy!
When is a Person Contagious with the Flu?
Flu patients can be contagious up to 1 day before symptoms appear and remain contagious for up to 7 days after symptoms begin. On average, flu symptoms show 2 days after exposure. Even without symptoms, you can spread the flu virus, which is why getting a flu shot early is important for preventing infection and protecting others.
Can I Get the Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine at the Same Time?
Yes, you can safely receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit. The CDC confirms it is safe for both adults and children aged 5 and older to get both vaccines at the same time, but they will be administered at different injection sites. This ensures protection against both viruses without needing multiple visits.
On-Site Flu Vaccination Clinics by Rock Ridge Pharmacy
Protect your facility with on-site flu vaccination clinics from Rock Ridge Pharmacy. We send our expert pharmacists directly to your group home, assisted living, independent living community, daycare center, or skilled nursing facility, offering top-tier flu vaccination services.
- Convenient On-Site Service
- Expert Pharmacists for Personalized Care
- Flu Shots for Residents and Staff
- Call us today at 201-444-4190 to schedule your flu clinic and ensure your facility is protected this flu season.
Schedule Your Flu Shot Today
Don’t wait—protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season. Visit Rock Ridge Pharmacy to get your flu vaccine today. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can easily schedule an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flu Vaccination
Visit us at Rock Ridge Pharmacy to get your flu shot. Our team is here to help you stay healthy and informed throughout the flu season.
A: No, the flu shot contains inactivated (killed) viruses or no virus at all and cannot cause the flu.
A: Yes, but vaccination may make your illness milder than if you hadn't received the vaccine.
A: Flu viruses change quickly, so last year’s vaccine may not protect against this year's virus. Annual vaccination helps ensure protection against the most current strains.
A: It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu.
A: Vaccine effectiveness can vary each year but generally reduces the risk of flu by 40% to 60% among the overall population when well-matched to circulating viruses.
A: The most common side effects are mild and include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, and mild aches.
A: Yes, you can receive the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
A: No, the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 but helps reduce the burden on healthcare systems during the flu season.
A: Yes, it is safe for most people with egg allergies. For severe allergies, the vaccine should be administered in a medical setting.
A: Yes, the flu vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and can be given during any trimester.
A: Elderly individuals are recommended to receive a high-dose flu vaccine or an adjuvanted flu vaccine for better protection.
A: Children younger than 6 months and people with severe, life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.