Getting vaccinated against influenza (flu) will be more important than ever this coming season. October marks the beginning of flu season and health experts advise that you get vaccinated to avoid becoming sick with the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.
There is a concern that many people, particularly older adults, will not get vaccinated for fear of going out and getting COVID-19. However, not getting vaccinated against influenza can put you at risk of contracting both diseases, which could be very dangerous as both affect the respiratory system and could be deadly.
At the time of vaccination, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that you make sure the vaccine you are getting is the one developed for this new flu season. This is critical to ensure that you are as protected as possible against the flu, especially since the vaccine changes every year.
As there are different types of influenza viruses, the vaccine is reviewed annually to make it more effective against the strains that are expected to be most active during this season.
Routine vaccines like the flu shot protect people and communities from preventable diseases and outbreaks, while they help keep the health care system from becoming overwhelmed.
