Flu vaccinations are more crucial this year than ever before. The previous flu season was almost non-existent, primarily due to lockdowns and widespread mask-wearing. However, as society begins to return to a semblance of normalcy — despite the ongoing pandemic — the CDC is expressing concern about the upcoming flu season. The combination of a potentially severe flu outbreak and hospitals already overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients has prompted the CDC to strongly encourage everyone to receive their flu shot as soon as possible.
With schools reopening and other respiratory illnesses, like RSV, reemerging, many individuals may have compromised immune systems due to a lack of exposure to illnesses last year. Alarmingly, many people are hesitating to get vaccinated. A recent study by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) released on October 7, 2021, revealed that 44 percent of U.S. adults are either uncertain or do not plan to get a flu shot. Among those at higher risk for flu-related complications, nearly 23 percent indicated they do not intend to get vaccinated this season. This highlights the ongoing challenge of vaccine hesitancy in the country.
During a recent news conference, Dr. Emily Carter, Director of the CDC, urged, “While we cannot predict the flu activity this fall, I encourage everyone aged 6 months and older to get vaccinated. If you have any doubts about the flu vaccine, please seek out the information necessary to make an informed decision for your health. The COVID-19 pandemic persists, and the simultaneous circulation of both flu and COVID-19 could further burden our healthcare system.” Dr. Carter emphasized that receiving the flu vaccination is the best way to safeguard oneself and loved ones while alleviating extra pressure on healthcare providers.
The flu shot not only helps in preventing illness but also minimizes its duration and severity. Dr. David Reynolds, NFID Medical Director, noted that “even when flu vaccinations do not entirely prevent infection, they can lessen the illness’s severity and duration, reducing the risk of severe complications, including hospitalization and death.”
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to flu-related complications, including pregnant women, children under five, adults aged 65 and older, and those with specific chronic conditions like diabetes, lung disease, and heart disease. Furthermore, if you need a COVID-19 booster or are getting vaccinated for the first time, rest assured that you can receive both the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine simultaneously. The CDC has confirmed that it is safe to do so.
The CDC recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccination, ideally by the end of October, to ensure full protection against the virus. So, what are you waiting for? Get your shot today!
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In summary, the CDC is urging all eligible individuals to get vaccinated against the flu this season to protect themselves and the healthcare system. With the added risks posed by the ongoing pandemic, vaccination is more important than ever.