Pros and Cons Of Getting The Flu Shot

Flu season has returned, and with it constant calls to get a flu shot. Flu shots are generally a good thing, but this doesn’t mean that they don’t have their drawbacks. Below are a handful of pros and cons to getting a flu shot in 2019.

Pro: Protecting Yourself

The best reason to get a flu shot is to protect yourself from the flu. The flu is a severe illness, one that can be deadly to those who are already in poor health. Those in better health can still find themselves bedridden and unable to work or participate in their favorite activities. Getting a flu shot is simply an excellent way to avoid this illness.

Con- Cost

The good news is that most insurance plans will cover a flu shot with little or no charge. The bad news, though, is that not everyone has health insurance. If your policy doesn’t include a shot or you aren’t insured, you may end up paying between fifty and one hundred dollars for a flu shot. Though the price may be small compared to getting the flu.

It’s important to remember that not everyone can get a flu shot, even though everyone is susceptible to the flu. Newborn children and those who are allergic to the vaccine still need protection, and the best way to protect them is to avoid getting ill. Getting a shot won’t just protect you — it helps to prevent the spread of the illness to all of those around you.

Unfortunately, it does still take time to get a flu shot. Those with insurance may have to get a doctor’s appointment during one of the busiest times of the year, meaning hours of wasted time just waiting to get a shot. It’s also entirely possible to go to a location that advertises flu shots and be turned away due to a low supply of the vaccine.

Getting a flu shot also means less time missed at work. Those who get flu shots are much less likely to have to take time off due to illness, improving their overall productivity, and proving their dedication to the job. If you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, a flu shot might be one of the most essential tools that you can use.

The final downside to getting a flu shot in 2019 has to do more with the science behind flu shots than anything else. There are multiple strains of influenza, and it’s impossible to tell which will hit the hardest in any given year. It’s entirely possible to get the shot and still get sick, especially if an unexpected strain hits. When that occurs, you’ll be out time and money while still dealing with the flu.

While there are certain drawbacks to getting a flu shot, the pros largely outweigh the cons. If you can get a flu shot, doing so is almost always a good idea. While the time and money spent on shots can be a burden, it’s still better to avoid getting the flu.