National Influenza Vaccination Week: Why Your Lungs Need Protection Now
National Influenza Vaccination Week is a special awareness event that runs from December 1 to 5 this year. It’s meant to be an opportunity to promote flu shots and remind people they can still get their vaccinations, even if the holidays are just a few weeks away.
As a lung care specialist in Chattanooga, TN, we believe these vaccinations are essential for maintaining lung health during peak flu season. Shots reduce the severity of infection and sometimes help you avoid it completely, especially during the colder months when transmission is highest. Ultimately, it is one of the most powerful methods you can use to prevent trouble breathing and wheezing in Chattanooga, TN.
How The Flu Affects Your Lungs
Flu is a tiny virus that spreads through droplets of moisture in the air. Like other respiratory pathogens, it is highly infectious, meaning it spreads quickly through the community.
The most challenging symptoms of flu relating to the lungs are coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing. These effects occur because the virus causes inflammation of the airways, leading to restriction that feels a bit like asthma or COPD.
Who Is Most At Risk Of Severe Flu-Related Lung Complications?
Unfortunately, the flu can weaken the immune system in some at-risk groups, such as elderly people and those who are immunocompromised. Those who are more at risk should always consider the value of getting a flu shot, just to be on the safe side.
It’s also a good idea for anyone with chronic lung conditions to opt for vaccination. For example, people with COPD or asthma can benefit enormously from extra protection.
Locally in Chattanooga, air quality can sometimes be low and seasonal allergens return in the spring. Flu can compound these risks, leading to further lung issues and potential difficulties breathing.
Why Flu Shots Are Necessary To Protect Your Lungs In Winter
Getting vaccinated this December is beneficial for all sorts of reasons.
The main perk is that it primes the immune system to fight influenza strains. The flu shot essentially activates similar immunity channels, putting the body on guard and helping it create the types of antibodies needed to kill off infection.
Studies show that getting vaccinated reduces infection risk by 40% to 60%. This reduction in risk cuts the probability of severe lung damage caused by prolonged infection.
Vaccinations at this time of year also carry through peak season (which usually continues until the end of February). With vaccinations, it only takes around two weeks for antibodies to develop, and then the immune system is ready to fight off the flu.
Keep Your Lung Health in Check with The Lung Docs
At The Lung Docs, we encourage all eligible patients to speak with their healthcare provider about flu vaccination and stay proactive during this respiratory season.
Experience wheezing, trouble breathing or chest pain? Book an appointment with us for any of your lung-related concerns. Our expert team is here to evaluate your symptoms, provide timely treatment, and help you breathe better all season long.
Chattanooga’s leading lung doctor, Dr. Mike Czarnecki, MD, is renowned for delivering exceptional care and innovative treatments in pulmonary medicine. Whether you need a quick check-in to discuss symptoms or want to make sure your medications are optimized, a telehealth appointment can help you stay on top of your health from anywhere you go this holiday season. Click here to contact us to book an appointment.
