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“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to fully develop in the body,” said ODH Director Dr. Amy Acton. “With friends and family starting to gather for the holiday season, it is the perfect time to make sure you and your loved ones are protected against the virus.”
Getting vaccinated is especially important for people who are more vulnerable to serious flu complications, including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions.
Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Many people in vulnerable groups are also visited by friends and relatives. When their visitors are immunized, that also make them less likely to spread the flu to them.
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In addition to getting a flu shot, ODH recommends washing your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizer when you are unable to wash, trying not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth since germs are often spread this way, getting plenty of rest, and when you are sick, stay home until you are fever-free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication.
Flu vaccines are offered by many doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies, and college health centers, as well as by many employers and some schools.
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