Each year, millions of people across the United States are affected by the flu, a contagious respiratory illness that can range from mild to severe—and sometimes even lead to death. During Delaware’s 2018-2019 flu season alone, more than 6,000 confirmed cases were reported. Nationwide, an estimated 37 million people fell ill, with flu-related deaths ranging between 36,400 and 61,200.

The best defense against this potentially deadly virus is simple: get your annual flu vaccine. According to Dr. Parvathi Somasundaram, Medical Director of Bayhealth Occupational Health, everyone over the age of six months should receive a flu shot each year.

Understanding the Flu and Its Dangers

What is Influenza?

Influenza, commonly referred to as “the flu,” is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. These viruses primarily affect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Symptoms can vary widely, from mild fatigue to severe respiratory distress requiring hospitalization.

Typical symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Muscle or body aches

• Headaches

• Fatigue

While most people recover in a few days to less than two weeks, certain individuals, particularly young children, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk for developing serious complications.

The Critical Importance of Annual Flu Vaccination

Why the Flu Shot Matters

Dr. Somasundaram emphasizes that the flu vaccine is not just about individual protection—it’s a way to protect your entire community through herd immunity. By vaccinating yourself, you reduce the virus’s ability to spread, thereby safeguarding vulnerable individuals who cannot get vaccinated themselves, such as newborns or those with specific medical conditions.

“Think of getting the flu vaccine as your way of paying it forward,” says Dr. Soma. “You’re playing a vital role in protecting the health of your family, friends, and neighbors.”

How the Flu Spreads

The flu virus spreads primarily through tiny droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby people or be inhaled into the lungs. Additionally, individuals can contract the flu by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their face.

Preventative Measures Beyond Vaccination

While the flu vaccine is the most effective tool in flu prevention, other important steps can help curb the spread of the virus:

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to reduce the risk of infection.

Following these simple practices, combined with annual vaccination, significantly strengthens community-wide defenses against influenza.

Commitment to Community Health

Leading by Example

Bayhealth sets a strong example in flu prevention by offering free flu shots to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and medical staff. Through its Annual Flu Program, Bayhealth ensures that its healthcare workers are protected, thereby reducing the risk of transmitting the flu to vulnerable patients.

Employees who choose not to get vaccinated are required to wear face masks in all patient-care areas throughout the flu season—a policy designed to safeguard both patients and staff.

Addressing Concerns About the Flu Vaccine

How Effective is the Flu Shot?

Some community members express concerns regarding the flu vaccine’s effectiveness. However, Dr. Somasundaram reassures the public that even when the vaccine doesn’t prevent illness entirely, it significantly reduces the severity of the disease.

Why a New Vaccine Every Year?

The influenza virus mutates rapidly. Each year, researchers forecast which strains are most likely to circulate and adjust the vaccine formulation accordingly. This is why annual immunization is necessary to maintain effective protection.

“The vaccination is modified each year to target the flu strains expected to circulate,” explains Dr. Soma.

When and Where to Get Your Flu Shot

Flu vaccines are widely available through primary care physicians, pediatricians, pharmacies, and public health clinics. The best time to get vaccinated is early in the flu season, typically by the end of October, although vaccination even later can still be beneficial.

FAQs

Q1: Why should I get a flu shot every year?

A: The flu virus changes each year, so annual vaccination is necessary to protect against the most current strains and maintain effective immunity.

Q2: Is the flu shot completely effective?

A: While the flu shot may not prevent 100% of infections, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Q3: Can the flu shot cause the flu?

A: No, the flu vaccine is made with inactivated viruses or virus components, so it cannot cause flu infection.

Q4: Who should get a flu shot?

A: Everyone six months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine, with rare exceptions based on specific health conditions.

Q5: What are other ways to prevent the flu besides vaccination?

A: Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick people, also help prevent the flu.