Here in Central Pennsylvania, the coronavirus is still spreading widely, knowing that the cough and cold season starts up again in October. Are you getting the annual flu shot?
It seems to me that a flu shot this year is critical more than ever. In the United States, the COVID-19 death toll is nearing 180,000. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging people to get the flu shot.
Full disclosure here, I only started flu vaccinations in 2017. Why? Because being a pharmaceutical sales specialist going into health facilities where sick people visit and reside, the health facilities requires documentation of the vaccine.
It does make sense for hospitals to maintain safe work and patient care environment with flu vaccinations. I’m due to get my shot in October, but this year, I plan to take the plunge sooner. 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, the annual flu shot, which contains antigens helping create immunity to the virus. Both COVID-19 and the flu are contagious respiratory illnesses that present with similar symptoms.
People who are most vulnerable to the flu virus include the elderly, children, and those with chronic diseases such as heart and lung disease. Influenza is more severe in diabetes patients because diabetes weakens the immune system.
The CDC recommends everyone six months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions.
There are many reasons to get influenza (flu) vaccine each year.
◊ Can keep you from getting sick with flu
♠ Can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization for children, working-age adults, and older adults
◊ Is an important preventive tool for people with chronic health conditions
♣ Helps protect women during and after pregnancy
◊ Can be lifesaving in 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 considered preventative
The COVID-19, still making inroads now and into this year’s cough and cold season, meaning getting a flu shot more critical than ever.
While it may seem there is so much 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. Please follow the CDC guidelines to help stop the COVID -19 spread – wear a mask and social distance.
