Meijer pharmacists are playing myth busters and reminding parents why getting flu shots are important to minimize the spread of seasonal influenza for families. Meijer Drug Store Vice President Nat Love says that one of the largest myths about flu shots could be keeping families from staying healthy at a time when viruses could be most prevalent.

“The bet time to get a flu shot is not October, but actually in the beginning of the school season,” Love said. “Once classes begin, kids can literally bring viruses into your home every day and it becomes difficult to keep influenza from spreading throughout the whole family. There is no expiration date to receiving a flu shot, so the sooner you get your flue shot, the better chance you have of staying healthy.”

Seasonal influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory disease that can cause mild to severe illness, and at times, lead to hospitalization or death. Every flu season is different, and influenza effects vary from person to person, which is why Love says it is important to understand the facts. While H1N1 is still the most dominant strain this coming season, Love said walk-in services and new options for flu shots at retailers like Meijer are making it easier – and more appealing – for families to get vaccinated. For more information on Meijer, please visit www.meijer.com.