The flu may seem like a simple disease that can be prevented with a flu shot or treated with lots of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication, but what most people don’t know is that it is also a silent killer that has taken the lives of millions of individuals since the days of our ancestors. Thanks to modern medicine, there are now ways on how we can easily avoid acquiring the flu.
Getting a Flu Shot
Getting a flu shot is one of the best measures to take in preventing the disease to affect and take a toll on our immune system. It may only be taken annually or semi-annually, but it has proven to protect the health of countless individuals for long periods of time, both adults and children, against the risks that come with getting sick with influenza. To increase protection, it is best to regularly get vaccinated to maintain the positive effects of the drug.
How to Increase the Flu Shot’s Efficacy
According to many studies, there is a way to increase and maximize the effects of the flu shot to the body. Some say there is specific time or season in the year that’s best to get a shot, but the most recent study to back this theory up is the study released by the University of Birmingham. According to them, it is best to administer the shot during the morning, between 9 and 11 AM. This is due to the fact the immune system is more active and responsive during this time than at night.
Keeping this in mind will be able to help save countless of lives by maximizing the effects of the flu shot, especially those who are aged 65 and over. Older people cannot create as much antibodies compared to younger people as their immune systems are weaker. This scientific breakthrough can increase their chances of creating antibodies, by administering the flu shot in the most opportune time.
Never underestimate the flu.
No matter what age we are, whether young or old, the risks of getting infected with the flu will always be there especially if we do not take the necessary measures to ensure protection. The health complications of influenza are especially higher in older adults, pregnant women, and those with compromised health. It is important to take all available information regarding the effectiveness of various medication including flu shots and apply it into our daily lives. Aside from getting vaccinated at a certain time in the day, it is also important to take extra effort in boosting our immune system as this will also help a great deal in the body’s response to any kind of vaccine.