Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot This Season

As the weather changes and flu season approaches, it’s time to protect yourself and your loved ones. At Physicians of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, we encourage all patients to get their annual flu vaccine — a simple, safe, and effective way to reduce your risk of illness this fall and winter.

We make it easy to stay healthy with same-day appointments available for flu shots and preventive care visits.

What Is the Flu and Why It Matters

The flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches. Even healthy adults and children can get seriously ill — and those with chronic conditions (like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease) face a higher risk of complications.

Each year, thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the U.S. are linked to the flu.
The good news: The flu shot is your best defense.

How the Flu Shot Protects You

The flu vaccine helps your immune system recognize and fight the virus if you’re exposed. It can:

• Reduce your risk of catching the flu

• Lessen the severity if you do get sick

• Prevent flu-related complications and hospitalizations

• Protect vulnerable loved ones (infants, seniors, and immunocompromised family members)

Getting vaccinated isn’t just about you — it helps keep your entire community healthier.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

The CDC recommends a flu shot for everyone 6 months and older, especially:

• Adults over 65

• Young children

• Pregnant women

• People with chronic health conditions

• Healthcare workers and caregivers

Even if you’re healthy, you can still catch and spread the flu — the vaccine helps stop the chain of infection.

When Should You Get Vaccinated?

The best time to get your flu shot is early fall — ideally by the end of October. It takes about two weeks for your body to build immunity, so the sooner you schedule, the better your protection.

At Physicians of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, we offer same-day appointments to make it simple and convenient to get your vaccine. If you haven’t gotten your shot yet, it’s not too late — vaccination throughout the flu season still provides important protection.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Getting a flu shot at Physicians of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics is quick and easy. During your visit, we will:

• Review your health history

• Administer your vaccine safely

• Answer any questions about side effects or concerns

• Combine your flu shot with other preventive care if needed (like your annual wellness visit)

Most patients experience only mild soreness at the injection site — a small price for big protection.

Common Myths About the Flu Shot

• Myth: The flu shot gives you the flu
  Fact: The flu vaccine cannot cause the flu. It contains inactivated virus or no virus at all.

• Myth: Healthy people don’t need the flu shot
  Fact: Even healthy people can get sick — vaccination helps reduce spread to others.

• Myth: It’s too late to get the shot after fall
  Fact: You can get vaccinated anytime during flu season — it’s still beneficial.

Protect Yourself and Others

By getting your flu shot, you’re taking an important step toward:
• Staying healthy during flu season
• Reducing missed work or school days
• Protecting vulnerable friends and family
• Supporting a healthier community



Schedule Your Flu Shot — Even Same Day!

Don’t wait until flu season peaks. Schedule your flu vaccine appointment at Physicians of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics today. We offer same-day appointments to make preventive care easy, comfortable, and convenient for your entire family.

Call us or book online — and take the first step toward a healthier season.

Quick Takeaways:

• Everyone 6 months+ should get a flu shot

• Best time: Early fall (but it’s never too late!)

• Protects you, your family, and your community

• Same-day appointments available — schedule today with Physicians of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics