Although it may seem like a mere seasonal nuisance to many people, the flu is actually a serious public health problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that every year, 36,000 people pass away from complications caused by the flu. Furthermore, it’s estimated that about 200,000 people each year are hospitalized due to flu-related complications. Because of these very real numbers, it is important that people consider getting a flu shot. Here are the top 5 reasons to brave the needle and go for it.
Commuting by Public Transit
For people who travel by public transit, getting a flu shot makes a lot of sense. Buses, trains and even carpool cars provide a relatively small enclosed space where germs can be easily passed by an errant cough, or via unwashed surfaces that see heavy hand traffic. When an individual is consistently spending time in this type of environment, odds of catching the flu go up.
Interaction with Kids
Although children are lovely, lively and the future leaders of the world, they aren’t particularly adept at personal hygiene. For those that work around children in schools or daycares, a flu shot is a good idea. The same holds true for parents who will have a child bringing germs back into the house on a daily basis.
Cheaper than a Hospital Stay
Although getting a flu shot may cost a small amount of money, getting the flu could add up to a significant medical bill. Thus, it’s better to invest in good health now before a problem arises than to wait until the flu has been contracted and then have it pay a serious toll on both health and pocketbook.
Protecting the Herd
It makes sense to get a flu shot for the increased safety of others. The flu might be an inconvenience for many people, but for the very young and very old, it represents a very serious health concern. For those who are in routine contact with the very young and very old, it is important to receive a vaccination so that they do not pass the flu on to someone with a weaker immune system. Children under the age of 5 and adults over the age of 85 are the groups most likely to be hospitalized as a result of the flu.
Quality of Life
No one wants to spend their holiday vacation fighting a fever in bed. Perhaps even worse, no one wants to battle sickness as they try to tighten up loose ends before going on a holiday vacation. Finally, if you won’t do it for yourself, think about being somebody’s burden while they are on a holiday vacation.
Justin writes on general healthcare related topics from Medicare & HIPAA compliace to general nutrition on behalf of Quest National Services.