October marks the start of flu season. Here's what Columbus-area doctors say you need to know to prepare for it, including getting a vaccine.
. While the last two flu seasons were mild in the southern hemisphere, Snyder said the most-recent one was different.
While it's still possible to get the flu, the annual shot cant stunt the severity of an infection and help prevent its spread. It's especially important for Ohioans with compromised immune systems, people who are pregnant and those who have chronic health conditions to get vaccinated for the flu, Vanderhoff said. For Ohioans older than 65, there are high-dose flu vaccines recommended.The annual flu shot is important for the youngest Ohioans to get, too, Snyder said. Young kids can suffer severe illness from the flu and Snyder said those who aren't vaccinated may suffer complications such as difficulty breathing.
"We want people to get those flu vaccines," he said."They are effective, carry very little risk and the benefit tremendously outweighs any risk."It takes up to two weeks for the shot's full protection to kick in and Roberts said it's ideal for Columbus-area residents to have that immunity as soon as possible.Even if Ohioans don't get the flu shot now, they can get it any time during the flu season, Snyder said.