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3 Reasons to Get the Flu Shot Now

Get the Seasonal Flu Vaccine

With all that you have going on in your everyday life, it’s easy to see why so many people put off getting the seasonal flu vaccine. But what if we told you getting it now, rather than later, is one of the most important things you can do for your health and the health of others?

Here are 3 reasons why there’s no reason to put off getting vaccinated this flu season.

It Takes About Two Weeks for Vaccine Antibodies to Develop

Unfortunately, the seasonal flu vaccine doesn’t offer instant protection. Because it takes up to two weeks for the vaccine antibodies to fully develop in your body, you’ll want to get your flu shot before the flu starts spreading around you. December is generally when peak flu season begins, so the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting vaccinated in October.

Getting the Vaccine Protects Others Around You

Even if you’re the type of person that “never gets sick,” receiving the seasonal flu vaccine is an important part of preserving overall community wellness. When more people get vaccinated, those who are especially vulnerable to the effects of the seasonal flu — infants, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems — benefit.

It Doesn’t Take Long and Can Save You Money in the Long Run

In most cases, getting the vaccine takes a matter of minutes. In addition, many insurance plans will cover the cost of getting the seasonal flu vaccine, and others will offer it with a minimal co-pay option.

Don’t forget, the Charles County Department of Health sponsors numerous free flu vaccine clinics throughout the fall. Here’s where you can find the upcoming clinics:

Tuesday, October 17 | 4:30-7pm  – Mattawoman Middle School (Waldorf)
Thursday, October 19 | 3-7pm – La Plata High School
Friday, October 27 | 2-6pm – Charles County Dept. of Health (White Plains)
Tuesday, November 2 | 10am-2pm – Piccowaxen Middle School (White Plains)
Thursday, November 4 | 10am-2pm – Charles County Dept. of Health (White Plains)
Tuesday, November 7 | 4pm-7pm – Smallwood Middle School (Indian Head)
Tuesday, November 14 | 3pm-7pm – Thomas Stone High School (Waldorf)
Thursday, November 16 | 3pm-7pm – La Plata High School
Thursday, December 14 | 3pm-7pm – Charles County Dept. of Health (White Plains)

Alternatively, UM Charles Regional Urgent Care is a convenient location to receive the vaccine as well. Avoid costly medical expenses by getting your flu shot early — remember, it’s far better to prevent the flu than having to recover from it.

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