Say “Boo to the Flu” and Get Your Flu Shot Before Halloween​

Halloween may be the “scary season” but the real threat is the flu season, which returns every winter and affects people of all ages.

While flu season is as inevitable as the appearance of witches and jack-o-lanterns at Halloween, getting the flu doesn’t have to be.

Barbour Community Health Association reminds you that the best defense against the flu for you and your family is the flu vaccine. And if you and your loved ones get vaccinated by Halloween, you can say “boo to the flu”—and be protected against the misery of flu symptoms and enjoy a safe, healthy winter once the flu season begins to peak in December.

Here are answers to some common questions we regularly get about the flu vaccine:

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone aged six months or older. (Exceptions include infants younger than six months of age and people who have had severe allergic reactions to flu vaccines in the past or are allergic to any of the vaccine’s ingredients.)

Getting a flu vaccine is especially important for children, adults aged 65 and older, those with a chronic illness, and those with weakened immune systems. For these individuals, getting the flu isn’t just unpleasant, it can also be dangerous or even life-threatening. The flu vaccine is critical to lowering their risk.

How long does it take for the vaccine to take effect?

It typically takes about two weeks to build immunity after receiving the flu vaccine. Getting the vaccine by Halloween ensures protection in time for the arrival of peak flu season in December.

Is the flu vaccine safe?

Yes. The flu vaccine has a strong track record for being safe, as millions of people—including families here in West Virginia and Barbour County—have received the flu vaccination for decades. Research by the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration has also confirmed its safety.

Will the vaccine give you the flu?

No. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. It’s made from inactive (dead) flu viruses, so it simply teaches your body to fight off the flu without causing infection.

How much does the flu vaccine cost?

Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the flu vaccine—making it one of the most affordable ways to keep your family healthy this flu season.

How long is the flu vaccine effective?

Getting the vaccine by Halloween provides protection for the entire flu season (flu season typically runs October to May with peak flu cases in December through February). You should plan to get the vaccine every fall, however, to help ensure a safe and healthy winter every year.

When is the vaccine available?

The flu vaccine is available right now, and supplies are plentiful this year. So, now’s the perfect time to get vaccinated.

Don’t delay, scare the flu away!

To get the flu vaccine for you or your child, contact your healthcare provider to schedule an appointment, or visit a Barbour Quick Care location in Belington or Philippi to receive your flu vaccine, no appointment necessary.

The Brandon School Based Health team will hold a flu vaccine clinic for all Barbour County students and staff the week of October 6th. If you or your child are interested request an appointment today—or schedule an appointment anytime at any of the Brandon School-Based Health Services clinics in all Barbour County schools.

Don’t let the flu scare you and your loved ones this season. Say “boo to the flu” and protect your family this flu season—get vaccinated before Halloween. Walk into a Barbour Quick Care clinic in Philippi or Belington, or schedule an appointment today.