The Doctor’s Note: Get your flu shot this year

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral infection most seen during winter months. Typical flu symptoms are fever, chills, cough, body aches and fatigue that begin abruptly. My patients would often say “I feel like I was hit by a truck” or “I ache so bad even my hair hurts,” sentiments commonly felt by those suffering from flu. While the flu, like many … Continue reading The Doctor’s Note: Get your flu shot this year

{Infographic} Knowing the differences between coronavirus, cold, flu, and allergies

As coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread, it’s important to know how it may affect you and how it compares with other illnesses. That way, if you begin to have symptoms of COVID-19, you can contact your doctor promptly. A doctor can determine whether you have the coronavirus or whether it’s the common cold, allergies or the flu. Use the below infographic as a reference point … Continue reading {Infographic} Knowing the differences between coronavirus, cold, flu, and allergies

The Doctor’s Note: Should I get the flu shot?

With the focus on coronavirus (COVID-19) these past several months, it may be surprising that we are talking about a different virus today. However, with similarities between a flu and COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to prevent the respiratory illnesses we can. According to the CDC, the flu vaccination is “the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.” Blue Cross and … Continue reading The Doctor’s Note: Should I get the flu shot?

Can an universal influenza vaccine exist?

The Doctor’s Note: Can a universal flu vaccine end annual vaccination?

You’ve probably heard about this season’s flu outbreak, because it is more severe than in year’s past. In this week’s blog, Dr. Callahan, who recently joined the BCBSKS staff, shares more details about the flu vaccination and if a universal vaccine could replace annual flu shots. Continue reading “The Doctor’s Note: Can a universal flu vaccine end annual vaccination?”

The Doctor’s Note: Should I get a flu shot?

Winter is approaching, so it is time to decide whether or not to get a flu shot. The flu shot is the single best way to prevent the flu, but less than half of all Americans get one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that almost everyone over 6 months of age get a flu shot this year. Let’s take a look at some facts that support how the flu shot can be beneficial. Continue reading “The Doctor’s Note: Should I get a flu shot?”