There’s only one question to ask when it comes to getting vaccinated for the flu. And it’s not whether or not you should get vaccinated—that’s a given—but which vaccination should you get, the flu shot or the nasal spray vaccine, FluMist.
While both vaccinations fight to prevent the onset of influenza, there are pros and cons to both.
The Flu Shot
The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get immunized against the flu. Why risk getting sick if it’s avoidable? There’s a common misconception that flu vaccinations will give you the flu, but don’t worry, that’s not the case! A flu vaccination offers protection throughout the upcoming flu season. No one likes to be sick—sore throats, ear aches, fevers—you name it, it’s miserable. Prepare yourself against the influenza virus with the flu shot.
Benefits of the Flu Shot Vaccination
There are many reasons why the flu shot could be the right immunization option for you:
- Safe for a large age group—babies can be vaccinated starting as early as six months.
- Protects against three (or four depending on the specific vaccination) strains of influenza.
- Produces antibodies in the bloodstream to help build immunity.
Cons of the Flu Shot
- There are minor side effects such as soreness or redness at the injection site, low-grade fever, and body aches.
- Takes about two weeks for immunity to occur.
- Many people don’t like to receive injections.
FluMist Vaccination
If you aren’t a fan of needles, or have a child between the ages of two and eight, the FluMist vaccination might be the right choice. Nasal spray vaccinations are less daunting for many people and studies have shown that it might offer better protection to children than the flu shot.
Benefits of FluMist
Some benefits of the FluMist vaccination include:
- No needles are required—one spray is administered in each nostril.
- It’s preservative and latex-free.
- There are only minor side effects, which include a runny nose, headache, wheezing, vomiting, muscle aches, sore throat, couch, and fever.
- Protects against four strains of influenza.
- Produces antibodies in the nose, and continues into your cells and bloodstream.
Cons of Nasal Spray Vaccination
- Available to a limited age group between two and 49 years old.
- There are minor side effects, which include a runny nose, headache, wheezing, vomiting, muscle aches, sore throat, couch, and fever.
- Takes about two weeks for immunity to occur.
Flu Vaccinations in Maryland
Are you ready to vaccinate you and your family before flu season arrives? If so, Fast Track Urgent Care offers both the flu shot and flu mist at our walk-in clinics in the Silver Spring area. Get your flu vaccination today!
