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Influenza Flu Vaccination

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Influenza is a virus that is spread through airborne droplets, which are present when coughing, sneezing, and even talking (Adams, 2017). The awesome thing about influenza (i.e. the flu) is that it is fairly easy to prevent. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists seven ways you can use to protect yourself from the flu. The number one and most important is to get your yearly flu vaccination. Also, prevention includes avoiding close contact with those who are sick; staying home when you are sick; covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing; cleaning your hands with warm water and soap; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and last but not least, practicing generally good health habits (CDC.gov, 2015). Adequate sleep, …show more content…

Common side effects can include redness, swelling, tenderness and aching at the injection site; fainting (mainly in adolescents); aches; mild fever; and nausea (vaccines.gov, 2016). Although many people experience these symptoms after receiving a flu shot there are very few that have major complications. People who are truly allergic may experience difficulty breathing; swelling around the eyes and lips; hives; paleness; weakness; rapid heartbeat; dizziness; changes in their behavior; and high fever (vaccines.gov, 2016). In the event of a serious reaction, which typically happens within a few minutes to hours of injection, you will need to seek emergency medical attention. A safe way to monitor your symptoms would be to stay at the clinic you received your vaccination for a least 15-20 minutes after the injection, especially if it is your first time being vaccinated. By sticking around, you can see how your body is reacting to the vaccine and get immediate support if you do have a severe …show more content…

All you need to do is get your yearly flu shot, stay away from sick people, stay home if you are sick yourself, cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, wash your hands properly and regularly, keep your hands off your face, and live a healthy lifestyle. Even people with severe egg allergies can receive an influenza vaccine safely (CDC, 2016). There are many clinics in the Layton, Utah area that offer influenza vaccinations. The list provided shows the clinic address, phone numbers, hours (if posted), and prices (if posted). Three out of the four clinics on the list do not require health insurance to receive the shot and one even lists the vaccine as free of charge while supplies lasts (see: Intermountain Healthcare ExpressCare clinic for

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