Flu season is here, and by now, you’ve likely heard public safety announcements encouraging everyone to get their flu vaccinations. Hopefully, you’ve already received yours. If not, don’t delay—your health depends on it.
A few years ago, I learned this the hard way. My busy schedule kept me from prioritizing my flu shot. I tried to get vaccinated once, but the pharmacy had run out of doses, and I never found the time to return. I thought I had dodged the flu bullet when January rolled around, but soon after, I felt a cold coming on—and it turned into something much worse.
The flu is no ordinary cold. Many people mistake one for the other, but if you truly catch the flu, you’ll know the difference. I was so ill that I was bedridden for a week, unable to work or manage my responsibilities. It was one of the most harrowing experiences of my life and a mistake I’ll never repeat.
Why You Should Get Vaccinated:
- Reduced Symptoms and Duration: While no vaccine is 100% effective, if you do contract the flu after vaccination, your symptoms are likely to be less severe and resolve more quickly.
- Decreased Risk of Severe Illness: Vaccination can significantly lower the chances of developing complications from the flu, such as pneumonia or hospitalization.
- Community Protection: Vaccines help protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Cost Savings for Businesses: Research shows that vaccinated employees take fewer sick days, which benefits both businesses and families.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu vaccinations prevented an estimated 7.5 million illnesses and 6,300 deaths in the U.S. during the 2019-2020 flu season. This data underscores the vaccine’s critical role in reducing the flu’s impact. (Source: CDC, 2023)
At Crime Scene Cleaners of Kansas City, LLC, we know the importance of maintaining a safe and sanitary environment. If your home or workplace has been affected by a flu outbreak, call us at 1-800-909-2939 for professional cleaning and disinfection services.
Don’t let the flu catch you off guard. Get vaccinated today—it could save your life.
By Don M. McNulty, MBT AT- OSHA, MTC ©COPYRIGHT 2018