For many San Antonians, the changing of the seasons marks another peak allergy time and flu season. Allergy sufferers flock to the stores to stock up on over-the-counter medications and tissues, and other supplies. San Antonio is a prime area for allergens. The reasons why may surprise you, and if you are thinking of forgoing your flu shot this year, here’s why you shouldn’t.
The Alamo City ranked number 7 amongst the top ten worst places to live with spring and fall allergies. This was a bump from the 10th spot held last year and partly resulted from the record-busting allergen numbers from last year. Molds thrive in heat and humidity, and large fluctuations between warm and cold temperatures in the spring can result in more intense pollen release when it’s warm. The biggest local offenders are:
Medical officials are pressing the importance of flu shots to reduce the strain on healthcare systems due to the COVID-19 response. Flu vaccines protect you and those around you from the 3-4 most common influenza strains during the current flu season. They also reduce and time away from work or school due to flu-sickness. Flu vaccines are safe for those six months and older (barring any medical conditions that prevent you from getting the vaccine). They are also vital for those who have a higher chance of developing severe symptoms and complications from the flu. These include being over 65, chronic health conditions, and cancer. Do you need your flu shot or help with allergy relief? We can take care of both along with our other prevention, acute, and family care services here at Bandera Family Health Care. To set up an appointment, call us at (210) 695-1900. References: https://www.mysanantonio.com/lifestyle/article/San-Antonio-named-one-of-the-most-challenging-15127583.php#photo-19166302 https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccinations.htm https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm https://acaai.org/news/what-four-factors-influence-severity-allergy-season
Your Local Allergies
The Alamo City ranked number 7 amongst the top ten worst places to live with spring and fall allergies. This was a bump from the 10th spot held last year and partly resulted from the record-busting allergen numbers from last year. Molds thrive in heat and humidity, and large fluctuations between warm and cold temperatures in the spring can result in more intense pollen release when it’s warm. The biggest local offenders are:
- Mountain cedar pollen
- Oak pollen
- Ragweed
- Mold spores
Why You Should Get a Flu Shot
We all know that not everyone gets their flu shot every year. Some believe it’s non-effective; some are against vaccines altogether (don’t get us started). No matter the reason, things are a smidge different in 2020, and it’s a game-changer when it comes to why you should not skip the flu vaccine. COVID-19 is still ravaging our country, with many states facing subsequent infection waves, some at alarming new case numbers.
Medical officials are pressing the importance of flu shots to reduce the strain on healthcare systems due to the COVID-19 response. Flu vaccines protect you and those around you from the 3-4 most common influenza strains during the current flu season. They also reduce and time away from work or school due to flu-sickness. Flu vaccines are safe for those six months and older (barring any medical conditions that prevent you from getting the vaccine). They are also vital for those who have a higher chance of developing severe symptoms and complications from the flu. These include being over 65, chronic health conditions, and cancer. Do you need your flu shot or help with allergy relief? We can take care of both along with our other prevention, acute, and family care services here at Bandera Family Health Care. To set up an appointment, call us at (210) 695-1900. References: https://www.mysanantonio.com/lifestyle/article/San-Antonio-named-one-of-the-most-challenging-15127583.php#photo-19166302 https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccinations.htm https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm https://acaai.org/news/what-four-factors-influence-severity-allergy-season
