Influenza can be dangerous to anyone, but it is particularly dangerous to people over the age of 65. Because of this, there are different versions of the flu shot available to you if you fall into this category!

We want you to stay as healthy as possible all season long, and that includes getting your annual flu shot as soon as possible. Check out AFC Urgent Care Monroe Rd.’s latest blog all about the high-dose flu shot below.

Is the High-Dose Flu Shot New?

The higher-dose version of the flu vaccine has been around for years and provides even more protection against strains of the flu than the standard shot. The standard flu shot protects against the year’s most common strains of the flu, while the high-dose version protects against four different strains.

If you are 65 or older, this can be great news for you! Since your immune system can weaken as you get older, any strain of the flu can be dangerous or even deadly to you. With the high dose vaccine, your body creates four times the amount of antibodies against those flu strains. More protection equals less chance of a severe infection!

Potential Side Effects After the Shot

• Muscle aches
• Minor discomfort at the injection site
• Headache
• General tiredness

Are the Flu Shot Side Effects Influenza?

No! We hear this often, and it is simply just not true. Both the standard flu shot and the high-dose shot do not contain live virus, so you cannot get the flu from the vaccine.

These side effects or a general unwell feeling after getting your shot is just your body’s reaction as it works hard to create antibodies for you. This process just means that the shot is doing what it is supposed to do for you.

Potential Flu Complications for Older Adults

• Myocarditis (heart inflammation)
• Pneumonia
• Kidney failure
  
• Bronchitis

It’s not too late to get your flu shot this year! Come see us today at AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road.