The Benefits of the Flu Vaccine
This year, it is more important than ever to get your flu shot. Flu shots are available at all our grocery locations, no appointment needed.
Watch the video about how to fight against the flu.
It might seem obvious, but the number one benefit of getting a flu shot is to keep people from getting sick. During the 2017-2018 flu season, the flu vaccine prevented an estimated 6.2 million flu illnesses, 3.2 million flu medical visits, over 90,000 hospitalizations and 5,700 deaths according to the CDC. That’s a big impact from a vaccine.
If we didn’t have a flu vaccine, it is possible the number of positive flu-related cases would be much higher. We have a way to reduce flu related illness and prevent flu related deaths.
The CDC outlines the following benefits of flu vaccines:
- Can keep you from getting sick with the flu
- Reduces the risk of flu-associated hospitalization for children, adults and elderly
- Preventative tool for people with chronic health conditions
- Protects women during and after pregnancy
- Reduces severity of flu illness in those that still get sick
- Protects your family and loved ones
Who should get vaccinated?
Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine. There are age-appropriate vaccines for people 6 months, 18 and older, and those over 65 years old.
Who should not get vaccinated?
Children under 6 months are too young for a flu shot. People with flu vaccine allergies and those not feeling well should consult with their doctor before getting a flu shot.
View the full list of CDC vaccine benefits here.
Learn more about who should get a vaccine here.