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Health providers push for flu vaccines; some Hoosiers skeptical

Posted at 11:28 PM, Sep 28, 2017
and last updated 2017-09-28 23:28:52-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- As health experts continue the push for flu vaccinations, several people in Indianapolis have varying opinions on their effectiveness.

"I have not even really considered it at all at this point. I mean, I might get one, but it hasn't really crossed my mind," said Isaac Whatley.

With the weather becoming cooler, some people are more open to the vaccine.

 "I don't see what harm it could cause, because there's a lot of bacteria going around and people are sick all the time. So, I don't see why not,” said Andre Bernacchi.

Fewer than 47 percent of Americans were vaccinated during the last flu season, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Due to the low percentage, officials with the CDC and other health agencies recommends everyone ages 6 months and older get a flu shot.

"There are hundreds of thousands of patients every year who are hospitalized, tens of thousands who die every year from influenza, so it's incredibly important to be vaccinated,” said Christopher Doehring, Franciscan Health's vice president of medical affairs.

MORE FLU COVERAGE

He recommends getting the shot before the end of October as the season typically lasts through March.

"The flu vaccine does cause some people to have flu-like symptoms, but it does not cause the flu, per se. So, those can be easily mitigated with Tylenol, Motrin, staying hydrated for sure, but the vast majority of people don't experience any side effects of the flu vaccine,” said Doehring. 

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