In one week, we will officially transition from summer to fall, and that means we will soon see the changes in the trees and temperatures.

But one change that many don’t think about is that changes in the weather also play a part in the increase in cases of the flu.

While the temperatures may seem like summer will hold on as long as it can, the flu season will soon be upon us, and we encourage people to start gathering information and making a decision on taking the flu shot as a preventative measure.

Some locations like health departments, pharmacies, urgent care locations and physicians’ offices have the flu vaccinations on hand or will receive them soon.

One of the most widespread illnesses each year, estimates say that several thousand deaths are attributed to the flu.

Some may certainly say that the flu vaccine is not effective, but for those who have taken the flu shot have lessened the likelihood of getting the flu, or at least reduced how severe the illness is.

Is there any certainty that someone won’t get the flu, even if they receive the vaccine? Absolutely not. But if the flu shot saves one life, it is well worth it.