As the weather shifts and the season changes, it’s time to start bundling up. Alongside this, flu season is officially upon us, prompting the question of whether you should consider getting a flu shot, particularly if you’ve already received the COVID-19 vaccine or booster.
The response from health experts is a resounding yes. Last year saw an unusually mild flu season, largely due to the fact that many of us were staying home and avoiding large gatherings during the holidays. However, with businesses reopening, reduced adherence to social distancing measures, and fewer people wearing masks, concerns are rising about the potential for a significant flu season ahead.
Dr. Mark Roberts, Director of the Public Health Dynamics Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh, voiced these concerns, stating, “We are worried the incredibly low influenza rates that we saw last season could create a rebound influenza epidemic this year.”
Based on CDC data spanning from 2010 to 2020, estimates reveal that the flu has caused an annual range of 12,000 to 52,000 deaths and 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations. Although it’s too early to predict the severity of this flu season, experts are apprehensive that the mild season last year might lead to reduced immunity against the strains expected to circulate this winter.
Dr. Roberts explained, “It could be really bad—and it could be really bad at a time when there’s still quite a bit of COVID-19 filling up our hospitals.”
Given these concerns, the most effective preventive measure against the muscle aches, fever, and potentially severe respiratory infections associated with the flu is to get a flu shot. This holds even more significance for African Americans, who have historically faced the highest hospitalization rates due to severe flu cases.
According to the CDC, everyone aged 6 months and older is recommended to receive a flu vaccine annually. Specific populations, such as infants, young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems due to conditions like HIV or cancer, are particularly vulnerable to the flu’s impact. As a result, vaccination is crucial for their protection.
In addition to considering the flu shot, it’s important this season to understand the similarities and differences between COVID-19 and flu symptoms. The CDC provides an easily understandable chart that outlines these distinctions. You can also find other flu prevention tips on their website to enhance protection for you and your family throughout the winter.
For more information on the significance of getting a flu shot this year, Sanofi’s newly launched site, FluShotFridays.com, offers comprehensive insights. It addresses queries about simultaneous COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot administration, as well as where to access flu shots in your locality.
