Flu Shots Clinic in Virginia

There are many different symptoms that people commonly experience with influenza (flu). Some of the most common flu symptoms include the following:

– Body or muscle aches
– Chills
– Congestion
– Cough
– Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting (more common in children than in adults)
– Fatigue or weakness
– Fever
– Headaches
– Runny nose
– Sneezing
– Sore throat

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you might have the flu. If so, it is still a good idea to get a flu shot, as there are often several influenza strains that you can contract in any given flu season. As such, getting the flu once during flu season does not mean you will not get it again!

There is an overwhelming amount of evidence from doctors, health organizations, and medical researchers that suggests the flu shot is indeed safe for individuals who are not at risk of complications. In order to ensure flu vaccine safety, strict measures are put in place that are closely monitored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). At Nova Patient Care, our doctors and medical professionals can vouch for the safety of the flu vaccine!

While the flu vaccine is very safe for otherwise healthy individuals, some groups of people are at higher risk of complications than the rest of the population. The following is a list of people who should not get a flu shot or should talk with a doctor before getting a flu shot:

– Anyone who has severe or life-threatening allergies to any ingredient in the vaccine, such as antibiotics, eggs, gelatin, or mercury
– Infants under the age of six months
– Individuals who have been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)
– Those who are experiencing a severe illness or infection

As for individuals who are immune deficient, it is generally recommended that they and their family members receive an inactivated version of the vaccine instead of a live version of the vaccine. The CDC also recommends that pregnant women receive the flu vaccine as long as they are not at particular risk of complication, as it is safe and will help protect both the mother and the baby from influenza.

While there are many medications that have potential interactions with flu shots, the vaccine’s effect on the medications is generally minimal. However, depending on the medication you are using, your response to the vaccine may be slightly reduced. If you are concerned about any medication you are taking before getting a flu shot, check in with your doctor or a medical professional to know if there are any risks to getting the flu shot. Our medical professionals at Nova Patient Care would be happy to provide information on which medications could potentially interact with flu shots.

According to the CDC, getting the flu shot reduces your chance of getting the flu by about 40 to 60 percent. As such, they are highly effective! While it is still possible to come down with the flu after receiving the flu shot, it is much more likely to be milder than if you did not get vaccinated.

For more information or to book an appointment for flu shots, call us. We serve patients from Woodbridge VA, Bethel VA, Dale City VA, Old Town Alexandria VA, Huntington VA, Fort Hunt VA, Arlington VA, Mclean VA, Idylwood VA, Kingstowne Center Alexandria VA, Franconia VA, Newington VA, Falls Church VA, Annandale VA, Tysons VA, Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA, Pentagon City Arlington VA, Seven Corners VA, Lake Barcroft, VA and surrounding areas.