Each year, many people opt to get a flu shot at some point during the winter months. This shot is considered a vaccination, and it is designed to stop people from getting the influenza. Getting this shot is not legally required for anyone; however, there are many good reasons to get one. If this is something you are considering, here are three important things you should know before you visit a clinic to get one.

The shot changes yearly

The flu shot is one of few vaccinations that actually changes each year, and this occurs because the viruses and risks of the flu change every year. Each year, the CDC determines what viruses will be the top risks, in terms of flu. They then use this information to create flu shots that protect against these viruses. When the CDC gets this information correct, the shots they offer prevent the flu in the majority of cases of those who receive the shot. The reason this occurs is due to the large number of different viruses that can cause a person to get the flu.

You may still get the flu

Because there are so many different viruses that cause the flu, there is still a chance you can get this illness even if you get the flu shot. The good news, though, is that if you still end up getting the flu after receiving the vaccination, the symptoms of it will likely be milder than they would have been had you not received the vaccination.

The shot is for anyone, but is recommend for all high-risk people

While anyone can get a flu shot, it is really important to get one if you are in a high-risk category for contracting the flu and suffering major health problems from it. High-risk categories include seniors and babies. Anyone who works in the healthcare industry could also be considered high-risk, and people who work in schools and around children may also fall into this category. You can get a flu shot, though, even if you are not considered a high-risk patient.

If you decide to get a flu shot, one of the easiest ways to do so is by visiting a walk-in clinic. Walk-in clinics offer all types of vaccinations, including the flu shot and making this decision may help you stay healthier this winter season. Visit walk-in clinics or urgent care centers like the Walk-In Family Medicine Center today to learn more.