Body aches. Fever. Chills. Lethargy. Coughing. 

Oh no… 

These rotten symptoms seem awfully familiar…

Then you remember what you experienced a couple of years ago when you caught the flu. After that terrible week you had to spend in bed, you vowed you would get your flu vaccine every year. Unfortunately, this fall just got too busy, and you never got around to it. Now you’re going to be paying for not finding time…for the next week to ten days. 

Don’t let this scenario happen to you! 

If you haven’t gotten your flu vaccine yet, it isn’t too late. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has established December 4-8 as National Influenza Vaccination Week in an effort to inform the public about the flu and prevention through vaccination and encourage us all to head into flu season, holiday travels, and our medical work protected.

At Trek Healthcare Staffing, we don’t want some miserable little virus keeping you from your work as a  travel nurse, so we too are promoting National Influenza Vaccination Week and hope that if you aren’t vaccinated already, you will strongly consider getting one between December 4-8. 

Is The Flu Really That Big of a Deal?

For most people, the flu means a miserable week of aches, fever, and feeling rotten for a week or two, costing you valuable time away from work, family, and living your life.

However some people, according to the CDC, can experience some frightening complications, including: 

• Sepsis
• Worsening chronic conditions
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Congestive heart failure
• Diabetes
• Asthma

Beyond your own health, you must consider how very contagious the flu is. You may be a carrier for a few days before starting to show symptoms, and you will be contagious for the first 3-4 days after getting sick. Your own experience with the flu may be mild, but could result in a serious illness for a more vulnerable person. Don’t put them- or yourself- at risk!

Where Can I Get a Flu Vaccine? 

Flu vaccines are available from your family doctor and at the local pharmacy. To save time, call and make an appointment. Almost all health insurance providers cover the cost of the vaccine, and when there is an out-of-pocket expense, you may qualify for low-cost options. Learn more about the specific guidelines for your insurance by contacting the company’s customer service line. 

When planning for your vaccination, don’t forget about your family members. Children can receive the vaccine at age six months and older. Ask your child’s pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns.

In the Past, I’ve Gotten the Flu Vaccine But Still Got the Flu. Could That Happen Again?

Unfortunately, it is possible to get the flu, even when vaccinated. You may be exposed to a strain of the virus that is not included in your vaccine. You could also be exposed to the flu before the vaccine has taken effect. Because of individuals’ unique body chemistry and health factors, the vaccine does not 100% protect every recipient, but even if you have this unfortunate experience, the vaccine can lessen the duration and severity of your bout with the flu.  

Flu vaccines are carefully formulated each year to fight the variations of the virus that are occurring most frequently. This year’s shot is quadrivalent, meaning it will help protect you from four different strains: H1N1, B/Victoria, H3N2, and B/Yamagata. These are the flu viruses that have been most frequently seen by medical practitioners, and the variations you are most likely to catch.

Who Is at the Greatest Risk from the Flu?

Women who are pregnant, older adults (aged 65+), and those with some chronic health conditions are more prone to the flu than others. Those who are in close contact with other people, such as healthcare providers and educators, are especially likely to be exposed. If you have kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or you’ve had a stroke, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated, as you also fit into the high-risk category.

As a Medical Professional, How Can I Encourage Others to Get Vaccinated?

Your example is your most convincing argument when it comes to getting vaccinated. If you believe others should get a flu vaccine, make sure that you have gotten yours as well, and be willing to share that with your patients. Take the time to hear patients’ questions and concerns, and be armed with the latest facts to provide the answers they need.

Join the Movement

During the week of December 4-8, roll up your sleeve with your traveling healthcare staffing team at Trek. We’ll be protecting ourselves this flu season and we hope that you will too.

We also would love to talk with you about achieving your goals of travel and advancing your career goals simultaneously through the many opportunities available for medical professionals. Give us a call to learn more. We look forward to speaking with you.