If you’ve already had the flu - do you still need a flu shot?

Even if you think you’ve already had the flu - you’re not off the flu shot hook...

A lot of people think they can skip it if they’ve already been exposed but experts disagree. According to Dr. Michael Fine, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health, It is possible to get the flu virus twice in one season. Even if you’ve had a confirmed case of the flu, the flu shot will help protect you from other flu strains that are circulating this year. Also, some people think they have the flu when they really have another virus.

Dr. Fine says If you develop flu-like symptoms, call your doctor right away. He or she can evaluate you and prescribe a treatment that will help lessen symptoms and the length of time that you’re sick. But remember, you need to call your doctor as soon as you start to feel flu-like symptoms, as treatment must occur during the first 24 hours of when you start feeling sick.