Experts stepped out pretty early on saying the flu shot was less effective than previous years. So why is the flu shot less effective? The reason being that this years strain of the virus mutated. Scientists create the vaccine about four months prior to the start of flu season, meaning sometimes they make wrong predictions on which strains the vaccine will fight off.
William Schaffner, MD, of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, says every flu season brings more than one strain of the virus. “Although we have a slight mismatch with one strain, which I have to admit is so far the dominant strain, there’s a good match with the others,” Schaffner says.
Despite the slight mismatch, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention still recommends that people get a flu shot this year. A flu shot isn’t the only way to avoid catching the virus this season. There are plenty of things you can do, along with the shot, to make sure you’re staying as healthy as possible.
Here are some key things to do to minimize your chances of getting the flu:
- Stay hydrated (drinking plenty of water! If you find yourself emptying your bladder often from too much water, try juicing. Juicing is the best way to hydrate and keep nutrients in your body)
- Avoid Alcohol
- Drink warm tea (don’t forget to add lemon!)
- Boost your immune system with plenty of protein, vitamin C and other immune boosters.
- Wash your hands (especially after being out in public and before eating meals)
- Sanitize your work spaces (keyboards, mouse, doorknobs)
- Get plenty of sleep
- Keep your nose moist (use a humidifier, steamer or nasal rinse)
- Eat healthy
- Get rid of stress!
By recognizing the symptoms at the start, you’ll have a better chance of preventing a full blow case of the flu by following the advice above. Still, it doesn’t hurt to follow that advice even when you’re not concerned about the flu. Living a healthy lifestyle and keeping your immune system in tip top shape is the best way to prevent illnesses in general.
Visit your local Urgent Care to get your flu shot. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms that don’t go away, please seek medical attention at your local Urgent Care.