Now's the Time to Discuss an Annual Flu Shot

By Gauthier Family Home Care | September 20, 2017 | Comments Off on Now's the Time to Discuss an Annual Flu Shot

Each year, the CDC provides estimates on how many people died from complications from the flu. The 2016 report stated that since 2010, there have been as many as 35.6 million cases of the flu and up to 710,000 hospitalizations. It’s believed that up to 56,000 deaths were caused by the flu. The CDC also estimates that the flu shot prevented more than 5 million cases of the flu.

Home Care in East Grand Rapids MI: Flu Shots

Now that kids are back in school, it’s time to talk to your mom or dad about getting a flu shot. If they don’t want to make an appointment with their doctor, they can go to many local pharmacies, senior center flu shot clinics, and stores like Costco to get a flu shot, often without charge.

Getting the Shot.

You should not be sick when you get the flu shot. It’s also not recommended if you have an allergy to eggs or gelatin or have had a reaction to a flu shot in the past. People with Guillain-Barre Syndrome should consult a doctor first. Most people have the flu shot without any difficulties.

People over the age of 64 should get the high-dose trivalent flu shot. The purpose of this shot is to work with the immune system and create a stronger immune response. This is due to the elderly having a weaker immune system.

Potential Side Effects.

An allergic reaction is possible, though rare, and usually only seen in people who have an allergy to eggs or gelatin and don’t realize it. Most people deal with no side effects. Those who do may find the injection spot feels warm and is slightly swollen and sore.

Getting Help Around the House.

In addition to it being the right time to make sure your mom and dad get their flu shots, it’s also a good time to consider home care. Think about the things that happen during the winter. Can your parents drive on wintry roads? They’re going to be stuck inside more, will they feel isolated and lonely? A caregiver solves those problems.

Rely on a caregiver to help make sure your parent gets plenty of socialization during the cooler, snowy, or rainy months. A caregiver is also able to help with meal preparation and other household chores. If your parent does get a cold, a caregiver is there to make sure your parent gets medical attention if necessary and drinks plenty. Call a home care agency to discuss other helpful services.

If you or someone you know needs help with home care in East Grand Rapids, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.

 

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/2015-16.htm

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