Just like the return of the pumpkin spice latte, fall is the time when influenza is at its highest. With the changing of the seasons, we want our patients to be protected against the flu. The flu might be mild in most cases, but if left untreated it can become more severe and even lead to death. NJ Doctors Urgent Care encourages all of our patients who are prone to getting the flu, or even patients who haven’t gotten the flu to get their flu shots. The flu can come on suddenly, and while you might not experience all symptoms of the flu it is highly contagious and can be spread to other people fairly quickly. It is something to consider doing especially if you have children or live with elderly family members or friends, who are more at risk for developing higher risk complications from the flu. Allergy Doctor NJ, Allergy Doctor New Jersey Although many people wait until later in the fall to get their flu shots, we urge our patients to get them earlier. The flu seasons are beginning to start earlier than anticipated. Flu shots are safe for everyone unless you have previously had an allergic reaction to the shot otherwise patients from as early as 6 months old to 65 years old should be getting a flu shot. If you find you’ve had an allergic reaction to a flu shot you should contact one of our allergists here at NJ Doctors Urgent Care as well to see if you have any underlying allergies that could prevent you from getting the flu shot. Our allergists will test you to make sure you aren’t allergic to the vaccine so that you can remain at your healthiest. We want our patients to keep in mind that while a flu shot won’t protect you from getting the flu, it will make the symptoms you experience less severe, and should shorten the duration of time in which you are infected. It is a common misconception that the flu shot will give you the flu; it does not carry a live virus. You might feel a little ill as a reaction, but it is your body’s way of building an immunity to the flu, but it should go away within a couple of days. At NJ Doctors Urgent Care we offer flu shots throughout the fall season for all of our patients, you don’t even need an appointment to come and get one. We do recommend that patients call ahead to make sure that we have enough of the vaccine available before making a trip, we understand how valuable your time is and do not want you to have to take the time out of your busy day if it isn’t available to you. You shouldn’t wait to get sick or let the flu infect you or your family before deciding to get a flu shot. Come in and see us the shot is quick and you will be right back out the door in no time. We serve all of our patients in Sayreville and Pompton Plains and the surrounding areas of New Jersey. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the flu shot or the flu, come in and our team will be more than willing to answer all of your questions. Beat the flu this year, and do not wait too long to get your shot.