Weekend Doctor: Protect yourself with the flu vaccine
By Ashley O’Flaherty, CMA
Supervisor, Blanchard Valley Medical Practices
The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor with flu by 40% to 60%. It has also been proven to help reduce the risk of hospitalization from flu, making it one of the most effective tools we have in preventing severe illness during flu season.
Receiving the flu vaccine protects not only you but all the people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to illness, such as infants, young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised community. By getting vaccinated, you’re contributing to a healthier, safer environment for everyone.
It is a common misconception that the flu vaccine can cause the flu. You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. It is an inactivated vaccine. You may, however, develop flu-like symptoms due to the immune response your body produces to the components of the vaccine. This is a good sign that you are developing a strong immunity to the actual virus. ▶︎
While it’s still possible to get the flu despite vaccination, the vaccine significantly reduces the severity and duration of the illness. If you test positive shortly after vaccination, you likely were exposed to the flu virus before the vaccine had time to take full effect, which can take up to two weeks.
There are two main types of flu vaccines: the standard flu vaccine and the high dose. The high-dose vaccine is designed for people 65 and older, helping this group build a stronger immune system response. The standard vaccine is for individuals between six months and 64 years old and is sufficient to provide robust protection in this younger demographic.
Getting your flu shot is a simple yet impactful step in protecting yourself and others. With flu season underway, now is the perfect time to prioritize your health and that of your loved ones. Together, we can stay protected and reduce the spread of flu in our community.
Stories Posted This Week
Friday, April 25, 2025
Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Blanchard Valley Health Foundation welcomes Sapp as Chief Development Officer
- LEO Club invitation to 5K and 1-mile walk & stroll
- Memorial bench and tree planting at Village Arboretum
- Bluffton Beavers sports roundup, April 16-22
- Pirate baseball loss vs. Fort Jennings
- Alan Garmatter is new CNB Chief Credit Officer
- Parks & Recreation Committee meets April 25
- Bad Dreams: Health implications
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Monday, April 21, 2025
- ONU theater students give voice to the Ukrainian people
- Permits will be needed for overnight parking on Spring St.
- April 26 Easter for Kids event
- Anabaptist choral concert on April 27
- April 23 landscaping night at the Bluffton Sportsmen's Club-LE&W Depot
- Upcoming BPL events, April 21-26
- Marc Augsburger is 2025 Outstanding Alumni from Rhodes State College
- Pirate girls win O-G Gold track meet, Bluffton boys 2nd