As flu season approaches, doctors encourage getting shots early

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – For most people, fall means flu season awareness and doctors at Navicent Health want to remind Middle Georgia residents to get their shots early.

Navicent Health Pediatrician Christy Peterson says many times when people wait until peak times during flu season to make their appointment, they’re much more likely to get exposed to the virus.

Though the shot isn’t a 100% preventable, Peterson says it’s better to be safe than sorry.

“Getting the flue vaccine will decrease your chances of getting the flu. It does not make them 0. For some people that means it didn’t work. But when you look at the numbers overall, people who get the flu vaccine are less likely to get the flu,” she told 41NBC.

Peterson says you can also decrease your chances of getting the flu by eating healthy, getting plenty of sleep and washing your hands often.