Pharmacist recommends getting vaccinated as flu season begins

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Pharmacists are recommending you stay current when it comes to your shots, including the flu as well as COVID-19.

New vaccines are available for both.

One pharmacist has advice for people who may have doubts about a getting a shot for one or both of those.

Edwin McGee, a CVS Pharmacy Manager, says they want to dispel some myths about the flu that make people hesitant to get a flu shot.

He says the flu shot won’t give you the flu because it is not a live virus.

Typically, it will take two weeks to build up in your system.

While simple things like covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze and good hand washing help prevent flu from spreading, he still recommends getting a flu shot.

“It’s available for those six months and older. But at CVS, typically three years and up, just depending on state allowances. We do recommend it for all ages, especially our special populations. Our elderly, our seniors, our pregnant and our immunocompromised,” McGee said,

He suggests doing a consultation with your pharmacist if you have questions or concerns about vaccines or other medications. They can go over your options to help make the decision that best helps you and meets your medical profile.

Local pharmacists say flu season starts in September.

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