The flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease brought about by the influenza virus. This year’s flu season has been particularly tough on most states, including California. USA Today reports:

Flu Dangers

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nationwide sufferers of flu-like symptoms are heading to the doctor’s office at a rate 50% higher than normal.

More than 95% of the flu viruses circulating out there are H1N1, the culprit in the 2009 pandemic. The silver lining? We’re better protected than we were in 2009, and the current flu vaccine protects against H1N1.”

Flu vaccine manufacturers have also created a nasal spray vaccine and an egg-free vaccine (for those with egg allergies). The traditional flu vaccine is still available for those who prefer it. People may also opt to receive either a quadrivalent vaccine or the traditional trivalent vaccine, which protect against 4 and 3 influenza strains respectively.

According to public health officials, everyone older than six months should receive the flu vaccine from a reputable South San Francisco walk-in clinic like U.S. HealthWorks Medical Group. The elderly, very young children, and asthmatics need to be vaccinated as soon as possible because they are especially vulnerable to the flu and its complications.

Fortunately, it is not too late to get vaccinated at a trusted urgent care in South San Francisco despite the fact that the flu season is already at its peak. Do not put yourself or your loved ones at risk. If you have yet to get vaccinated, now is the time to do so.

(Source: Flu dangers not over so get your shot; USA Today; February 12, 2014)