A nationwide study determined Medicare coverage of influenza vaccine saves money by increasing the number of those immunized and decreasing health care costs associated with influenza. Flu shots should be given in the fall because it takes two weeks for immunity to develop and the influenza season typically runs from November through April. A flu vaccination does not always protect a person from getting the flu, but in most cases it reduces the severity of the illness and protects against complications that may develop. A strains of the flu virus tend to affect more people because they change more quickly and people are not able to develop an immunity as well they can for B strains. Symptoms of the various strains are similar and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and soreness and aching in the back, arms and legs.
Most people recover in a matter of days.
The flu vaccine is safe and effective. It is made from inactive viruses and will not cause the flu. However, persons who are allergic to eggs or who have a fever should check with their physicians before receiving the vaccine.