Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine joined providers at Penn State Health to talk about the importance of getting a flu vaccine on Oct. 8. Levine received a flu shot during her visit.
Levine and Dr. Todd Felix, a family medicine physician at Penn State Health, urged residents to get flu shots before the end of the month, saying it’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu and its complications.
“The flu is serious and can be deadly, which is why it is so important for everyone to take the proper precautions,” said Levine. “Last year, we had more than 122,000 cases statewide and 258 deaths. It’s imperative that you get your flu vaccine now so you can be protected throughout the flu season.”
Felix addressed the misconception that getting a flu shot will make you sick.
“While it is true that some people, after they receive a flu vaccination, feel a bit achy or not well for a couple of days,” Felix said, “I encourage them that it’s their immune system working to develop the antibodies to the flu.”
Flu season begins in October and is expected to go through May 2020.
Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine employees and volunteers can receive a free flu shot: