Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Get the seasonal flu vaccination protection you need at The Shot Nurse! There is a convenient, easy way for you to stay healthy this year… and that’s a flu vaccine! Seasonal flu vaccines are available at both our Memphis and Germantown locations. With no waiting and no pain, it’s never a problem to get protected from the flu at The Shot Nurse! Plus, flu vaccines are covered under most insurance plans.

About Influenza

Influenza is a virus that spreads from one infected person to another typically by nose or throat. Influenza viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People can also become infected by touching a surface or object with the virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Influenza can cause:

Fever
Sore throat
Chills
Coughing
Headache
Muscle and body aches

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, and, in some cases, vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults). Anyone can get influenza. Influenza causes an average of 36,000 deaths each year in the US.

There are different types of influenza viruses, most commonly types A and B, which are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. These viruses can change (mutate) over time, which is why flu vaccines are updated annually to target the most current strains.

Annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of getting influenza and its potentially serious complications. Even when the vaccine does not completely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity of illness and the likelihood of hospitalization.

About The Seasonal Flu Shot

The flu shot vaccine is a killed virus, which is safe and does not give you the flu.
People who are allergic to eggs or have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome should not take the flu vaccine.
The vaccine provides immunity for the entire flu season.
It takes approximately two weeks to develop immunity after receiving the vaccine.
It is recommended that flu shots be administered in the fall for best results.
The Shot Nurse vaccinates children 3yr & up
We offer complimentary car-side service for persons with impaired mobility, although they must be accompanied by a caregiver to enter the office to complete payment and paperwork.

What Kinds of Flu Vaccines are Available?

Seasonal Flu Vaccine: Protects against two influenza A strains and two influenza B strains. This vaccine contains H1N1 and is recommended for all adults and children.
FLUAD or High-Dose Fluzone: Also called the senior flu shot, recommended for those over 65 years and older. The High Dose Flu vaccine has more antigen to help increase immunity whereas FLUAD has the same antigen as other vaccines, but also an adjuvant that helps boost the immune system.
Egg-Free Flu Vaccine: Vaccines are available that are manufactured without egg proteins for those with allergens.
FluMist: A live nasal mist vaccine for ages 2-49. It’s a great alternative for those who dislike shots or just prefer the excellent protection FluMist offers.

When Should I Get Vaccinated?

Flu vaccination should begin soon after the vaccine becomes available, ideally by October. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even in January or later. While seasonal influenza outbreaks can happen as early as October, during most seasons influenza activity peaks in January or later. Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against influenza virus infection, it is best that people get vaccinated so they are protected before influenza begins spreading in their community.

The seasonal flu vaccine is produced by private manufacturers, so availability depends on when production is completed. Shipments began in late July and August and will continue throughout September and October until all vaccines are distributed.

Who Should Not Be Vaccinated?

Different seasonal flu vaccines are approved for use in different groups of people. Factors that can determine a person’s suitability for vaccination, or vaccination with a particular vaccine, include a person’s age, health (current and past) and any relevant allergies.