Choosing to Be Vaccinated: What to Consider
Flu season is upon us and we’re still trudging through a global pandemic, so vaccines are top of mind for a lot of folks. There’s been controversy surrounding vaccines for some time now, so we wanted to dive into the why – the “why should I get vaccinated,” that is. There are different things to consider, a few of which we think are best to discuss today. Hopefully, this will help you make up your mind one way or another about the currently recommended vaccines, but as always, please reach out to your direct primary care physician with any specific questions or concerns, as they’ll know you and your situation best.
Are You Questioning the Safety of Vaccines?
To be available to the public, a vaccine has to be FDA approved. That’s no short task, as approvals require quite a bit of vigorous clinical testing – even when it comes to seasonal vaccines such as the flu shot. It may be different year after year, but it’s still just as safe and just as vital for your protection. We’ve all seen how a whole classroom can get the same bug during the school year, and that’s no coincidence. Opting for vaccines can prevent, or at least reduce, the spread of illness, while also protecting immunocompromised parties.
Consider the Potential Effects Your Choice May Have on Those Around You
Sure, your immune system may be top of its class, but what about those you interact with regularly? Your neighbors? Classmates? Coworkers? You can never guess who will be affected by a traveling cough or uncovered sneeze more than someone else. It’s all a chain reaction, and once it gets started, it won’t be quick to stop. We’ve learned a thing or two over the past few years about how to protect yourself and others, such as wearing masks in heavily populated areas (transit, shopping centers, large events), washing hands often, and allowing space between one another. Still, choosing to get vaccinated could make all the difference.
Nobody Likes Being Sick
A day off work or school may be nice, but wouldn’t you rather swap the sick day with a personal day instead? That way, you get the same time off but without the symptoms. Save yourself the congestion, fatigue, aches, and chills, and consider taking some of the extra precautions to avoid having – and potentially spreading – illness, seasonal or otherwise.
Do Your Research, but Find Legitimate Sources
Namely, the CDC or your direct physician.
Avoid turning to social media or trusting the ads shown on your feed (since people pay for them – whether they’re true or not). Take the flu shot again as an example. Each year, it’s vital to look into the seasonal recommendation, though there are always options. Every flu season is different, and influenza can affect people differently. According to the CDC, millions of people get the flu every year and suffer from symptoms of varying levels of severity. Reading up on the specifics may encourage you one way or another.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions
The great thing about direct primary care is 24/7 access to your physician, no copays, and unlimited visits. That means any time you have a question, you can ask your physician. You don’t have to rely on the internet, the receptionist, or technicians at the time. You get your doctor with all their knowledge and expertise; you get what you pay for. So, if you’re still asking “why should I get vaccinated,” your direct physician may be able to give you the answers and advice you’re seeking.
Receive Proper Healthcare with Elevated Health
Traditional healthcare tends to leave you wanting more since it often leaves the “care” out of the equation. With direct primary care, we focus on two words: direct and care. Again, patients receive more time with their doctor, 24/7 access with no copays, unlimited visits, access to at-cost medical supplements, and general added savings and convenience with our onsite wholesale pharmacy as well as our onsite lab.
If you have further questions about whether a vaccine is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of personable doctors. Change the way you think about healthcare; join Elevated Health.