Dr. Rajesh Geria on Why You Should Get the Flu Vaccination
Recent statistics show that each year, an average of 5–20% of Americans are diagnosed with the flu and thousands will be hospitalized due to flu-related illnesses. Dr. Rajesh Geria, an Emergency Medicine Physician in New Jersey, sees countless cases of the flu every season. He claims that receiving the flu vaccination is a proactive means to ensure the health and safety of yourself and family members. He takes the time to outline some key information regarding the influenza virus.
What is the Flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses. Globally, there are two primary flu seasons, November-April in the Northern Hemisphere and April-November in the Southern Hemisphere. The seasonality of flu outbreaks has been thought to be due to colder, drier temperatures, allowing for the virus to live and be transmitted over a longer time, along with colder weather, creating environments where people are in close contact more often.
Signs and Symptoms
Dr. Rajesh Geria notes that not all patients will experience the same symptoms of the flu, although, some common symptoms include high fever, myalgias (muscle aches), fatigue and lethargy, headache, and severe coughing with discomfort. The flu is often confused with the common cold in the first few days of illness, but if you begin to experience any of the signs and symptoms listed, it is advisable to visit your physician or emergency department.
Similarly, although anyone can catch the flu, individuals 65 years or older with conditions such as asthma are at an increased risk of being diagnosed as their immune system weakens with age.
Why Should I get the Vaccine?
The World Health Organization (WHO) along with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend the use of the influenza vaccine. With the effectiveness of 50–60%, it is a proven method of preventing and reducing flu outbreaks. Strain predications are made yearly by the WHO to allow for the formulation of the best vaccine for the upcoming flu season. A 2018 study found that from 2012–2015, flu vaccinations among adults reduced the risk of hospitalization to the ICU by approximately 82%.
Similarly, it is recommended that individuals over the age of 65 that have been diagnosed with COPD or heart disease receive a stronger dose of the vaccine. In the state of New Jersey, the law requires children attending preschool and daycare to receive their influenza vaccination yearly. By getting a flu shot, patients also help decrease hospital ER visits along with hospital admissions, which in turn helps in decreasing healthcare costs.
A common worry is that the flu vaccination can cause the flu. Dr. Rajesh Geria claims that this is not possible and encourages individuals to do their research.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the flu or the influenza vaccine, you can visit your local physician for more information.
