By: GRACE KONIG
Staff Writer
This controversial shot has been used and tested many times. As of September 29th, there have been 1,881 positive flu tests reported to the ADH, officials said in reports. Health professionals recommend everyone getting the vaccine, especially pregnant women, the elderly, and children who are more susceptible to catching the virus. Even with the extremely low chances of any side effects of this shot, at least two people have died in Arkansas from the flu, bringing the state total of flu-related deaths to six according to health officials. “The flu shot is incredibly important because it reduces your risk of contracting the flu,” Michelle Lin, a medical professional in New York. “It also reduces your risk for complications and passing it to other people, especially pregnant women, young children and the elderly,” who are more susceptible to the virus, she added. Health officials suggest getting vaccinated sooner than later for the shot takes about 2 weeks to take effect. Flu vaccines usually protect against 3 or 4 viruses but are definitely better than none considering there have been 9,600 to 15,900 deaths in the U.S. just this year due to the flu.