Get your flu shot now, build up your immunity

RBC | Thanksgiving is already here and the December holidays are closing in. It takes about two weeks after getting a vaccine for a person to build immunity against the flu.
“Active germs love crowded places such as family reunions, malls and airports,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, director of the Disease Control and Environmental Epidemiology Division at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
Everyone over the age of six months should get a flu vaccine. People at high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza include people 65 years and older, children younger than 5, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions.
Last year, the flu sent 1,639 Coloradans to the hospital. So far this year, eight have been hospitalized.
In addition to the vaccine remember to take everyday actions to stop germs from spreading:
– Avoid close contact with sick people.
– If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
– Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
– Wash your hands often with soap and water. Or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
– Disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated.