Why get a flu shot

Pastoral Care Givers extend the hand of caring and compassion–but are therefore at risk for catching influenza this season.  Flu shots are wonderful self-care for caregivers!

Other ways to stay safe:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and then dispose of the tissue.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Keep surfaces that people touch clean and disinfected.

More from the Center for Disease Control:

“Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Every flu season is different, and influenza infection can affect people differently. Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others. Over 200,000 people are hospitalized each year from influenza.

Between 1976 and 2007, estimated deaths from flu in the United States range from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people. During a regular flu season, about 90 percent of deaths occur in people 65 years and older. “Flu season” in the United States can begin as early as October and last as late as May.

During this time, flu viruses are circulating at higher levels in the U.S. population. An annual seasonal flu vaccine (either the flu shot or the nasal spray flu vaccine) is the best way to reduce the chances that you will get seasonal flu and spread it to others. When more people get vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through that community.”

Do shots like us!