Sick days aren't what they used to be. Lying on the couch eating chicken soup and watching Price is Right has given way to rescheduling clients and calls, inconveniencing your staff and compiling more stress than you've usually got. And if you don't call in sick, your customers and staff are at risk for catching your flu, which will only add to the mess. Maybe this year you should consider getting the flu shot.
Even if you don't like shots, you've got options in flu prevention. Both the shot and the nasal mist are proven ways to help avoid the flu.
The flu shot is an inactive strain of the virus given in the form of a shot. The shot is designed to prepare your body to fight off infection from the live virus that you may come into contact with.
The nasal mist vaccine contains a weakened version of the live flu virus. The mist is only for people who have a strong immune system and are healthy. Getting the nasal mist vaccine could make you more susceptible to certain side effects. Only healthy people between the ages of 2-49 years old should get the spray. The spray should not be taken by pregnant women and it may not be covered by your health insurance.
Things to consider:
Allergic to eggs? The shot is not for you. The viruses for the flu shots are grown inside of chicken eggs, so make sure your doctor knows if you are allergic to eggs.
If you have had a severe reaction to the flu shot before, you shouldn't get another, also anyone with a fever or with Guillain-Barré syndrome should avoid the flu shot.
Possible side effects:
- Swelling, redness, and soreness at the sight of injection. If this occurs, apply pressure with a warm cloth on the area to ease discomfort.
- Headaches
- Low-grade fever
- Muscle aches