DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Before people start coughing and spreading germs, studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show the influenza virus usually circulates in the fall.
Dr. Jignesh Modi, an infectious disease physician, said vaccines are the best way to prepare for flu season. In his experience, he's seen patients come to St. Mary's Hospital for the flu around November and December.Â
In 2017, the Macon County Health Department gave a total of 1,779 shots to people. Nearly 200 of those shots were given to infants between six to 35 months old. Nikki Walls, a Decatur parent, said vaccinations aren't meant for her 14-month-old daughter.Â
"She had a lot of ear infections," Walls said. "She was sick, in and out of the doctor's office - I think 13 times for the first year of her life."Â
Walls said she has her own way to preventing the flu from invading. She suggested washing hands, having good hygiene and taking mulch-vitamins. While reactions to flu vaccines are rare, the CDC said getting a flu shot lowered the risk of visiting the doctor by 30 to 60 percent. Dr. Modi said it is better to get the shot than not at all.Â
"You can shorten the spread of influenza to other people," Dr. Modi said.Â
Health experts suggested one should protect themselves after getting a flu shot. Steps can include keeping hands away from the mouth, nose and eyes. Washing hands frequently also helps.
