Why You Shouldn't Wait Any Longer to Get Your Flu Shot

Last year, only 55.5% of adults and 61.8% of kids in Maryland received their flu shot. We might already be halfway through the 2024-2025 flu season, but it’s not too late to get your flu shot this year. 

At Dr. Bamba's Health and Medical Center, Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, offers vaccines, including the flu shot, to adults and kids at our Glen Burnie, Maryland, office. 

If you’re on the fence about getting your flu shot, read on to learn seven reasons why you shouldn’t wait any longer to arm yourself against the flu.

1. The flu vaccine takes time to work

Once you get your shot, you’re not automatically immune to the flu. In fact, it typically takes about two weeks for your body to develop antibodies to protect against the flu virus. 

By getting vaccinated now, you’re giving your immune system the time it needs to be fully prepared to fight off invading viruses. 

Keep in mind that flu season typically peaks between December and February, so you want your immune system ready for that time.

2. Being vaccinated can reduce your risk of severe symptoms

Even if you catch the flu, being vaccinated can significantly reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms. Those who are vaccinated are less likely to experience severe complications, including pneumonia, which can be especially dangerous for young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

3. Your flu shot can help reduce your risk of hospitalization and death

In Maryland alone, there were 85 adult flu-related deaths last year. Fortunately, your flu shot can reduce your risk of severe symptoms (if you get sick). That creates another benefit — reduced risk of flu-related hospitalization and flu-related death.

4. Flu shots reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the flu can increase your risk of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) in people who already have high blood pressure. However, your flu shot can reduce that risk.

5. Your flu shot protects those you love

Vaccination doesn’t just protect you. It also helps protect those around you. Many people, including infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, rely on herd immunity because they may be unable to receive the vaccine or respond to it as effectively.

6. Vaccination reduces the strain on the healthcare systems

Every flu season, hospitals see a rise in admissions due to flu complications. While hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses are low to minimal this year (so far), getting vaccinated can help reduce the number of flu-related visits and allow emergency healthcare providers to focus on treating those in critical need.

7. Staying current with your vaccines sets a good example for others

If you have young children in your household, getting your flu shot sets a good example for them. Even if you don’t have children, staying up-to-date with your vaccines sets a good example for your friends, family members, and co-workers.

What to expect from your flu shot

While some people may experience mild soreness at the injection site or minor side effects, these symptoms are generally short-lived and far outweigh the risk of contracting the flu.

Ready to get your flu shot? Dr. Bamba can get you all caught up with your vaccines here in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Use our online scheduling system to reserve an appointment, or call us at 443-493-7760.