In-Flu-Enz What? - Why Should You Get the Flu Shot?

In-Flu-Enz What?

Do you hate to get shots? I do, but I know that they help keep me healthy. Shots, or vaccines, help our bodies form their own defenses against things that make us sick. The flu shot is one such vaccine.

Most of us have had the flu at least one time, and most likely, we do not care to remember the experience. You are achy, mucus drains from your nose and slides down your throat. Mucus may even collect in your lungs, and your chest might hurt due to coughing.

Basically, you feel lousy.

How do we get the flu?

The flu mostly spreads from person to person. This usually happens when somebody who has the flu sneezes or coughs. If you are close enough, and breathe in the droplets that are floating in the air, you can catch the flu. If you touch a contaminated surface, such as doorknobs, you can get the flu if you do not wash your hands before you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Why do you need the flu shot?

You may ask, "Why do I need to get the flu shot every year?" Each year the types of flu circulating are different. Viruses are strange creatures. They can change slowly over time, so that your body will not recognize them. They may also change quickly by taking genes from other viruses and animals. Other viruses may not change at all. If there is a big change in the virus, your body will not be "ready" to attack it.

What causes the flu?

Influenza is the virus that causes the flu. There are three types of Influenza (A, B, and C). Influenza (A) changes the most often, so there are many different types of Influenza (A). Influenza (B) changes less often and does not produce as many types as Influenza (A). Both Influenza (A and B) are the cause of most flu cases. Influenza (C) changes the least and only causes mild flu symptoms.

These viruses infect the nose, mouth, and bronchioli of the lungs.

Where does Influenza come from?

Scientists believe that Influenza type (A) started in birds and then spread to humans. They have also found Influenza (A) in pigs, whales, horses, and seals. Sometimes different types of Influenza viruses infect one animal or person at the same time. These two viruses may combine and produce a new virus.