Here in Central Pennsylvania, the coronavirus spreads widely, knowing that the cough and cold season starts again in October. Are you getting the annual flu shot?
It seems that a flu shot this year is more critical than ever. In the United States, the COVID-19 death toll is nearing 180,000. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges people to get the flu shot.
Full disclosure: I only started flu vaccinations in 2017. Why? As a pharmaceutical sales specialist, I go into health facilities where sick people visit and reside, and the health facilities require documentation of the vaccine.
It does make sense for hospitals to maintain safe work and patient care environments with flu vaccinations. I will get my shot in October but plan to take the plunge sooner this year. I hear many pharmacies already received their flu vaccine shipments.
The annual flu shot, should you get it?
Doctors tell you that your best way to avoid influenza is the annual flu shot, which contains antigens that help create immunity to the virus. Both COVID-19 and the flu are contagious respiratory illnesses that present with similar symptoms.
The elderly, children and those with chronic diseases such as heart and lung disease are the most vulnerable to the flu virus. Influenza is more severe in diabetes patients because diabetes weakens the immune system.
The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions.
There are many reasons to get the influenza (flu) vaccine each year.
◊ It can keep you from getting sick with the flu
♠ Can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization for children, working-age adults, and older adults
◊ It is an important preventive tool for people with chronic health conditions
♣ Helps protect women during and after pregnancy
◊ It can be lifesaving for children
♥ Several studies show a reduction in the severity of illness and a decrease in the risk for COVID-19 complications
◊ Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you
♦ Health insurances cover it to help you stay healthy – the shots are considered preventative
COVID-19 made inroads into this year’s cough and cold season, meaning getting a flu shot is more critical than ever.
While it may seem that so much is out of control during this pandemic, getting the flu vaccine, practicing proper handwashing, social distancing, and wearing face coverings are within our control.
As always, thank you for reading. To help stop the spread of COVID-19, please follow the CDC guidelines: wear a mask and socially distance yourself.
