Get a flu shot. Here are the facts
This image can be enlarged Cristina Span, NPR Cristina Span
It's easy for people to forget about COVID-19 boosters and vaccines. There's also another respiratory virus that could strike.
It's the common winter nemesis flu. There are vaccines that can help prevent it, but there is also misinformation and fears. Dr. William Schaffner is the medical director of National Foundation of Infectious Diseases. He says, "We have been concerned about vaccine fatigue" and that people may be confused about when or if they should get the flu shot. "Flu is a serious virus that deserves to be protected."
He says that there are two reasons why getting vaccinated against flu is a wise decision. The vaccine is proven to be more effective in fighting the flu year after year. You can also help to protect your family members by getting flu shots."
Here are some tips to help you get vaccinated against another potentially deadly virus.
The flu was almost gone last year, according to my ears. Do I really need to get the flu shot?
Yes. Yes. Last year, there was a record number of flu cases. This is likely due to widespread mask wear, remote work, school and physical distance. Experts fear that this year's reopening schools, decreased compliance to pandemic precautions, and the surging number of delta variant infections could lead to a double whammy, with a very severe flu and COVID-19 season. Already, RSV cases in children are on the rise. LJ Tan, executive Director of the Immunization Action Coalition, said that this suggests that flu will return.
Who should have a flu shot?
Anybody six months and over, unless your doctor has recommended otherwise, Dr. Lisa Grohskopf is a medical officer at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's influenza division.
When is the best time for the flu shot?
Why wait?
The U.S. flu season begins in October. Grohskopf states that there is some concern about the possibility of immunity waning before May's flu season. However, there aren't enough data to determine the best time to get the shot.
According to the CDC, you should get your flu vaccine before October 31st. The number of flu cases will increase by then and many people will still be able to travel for Thanksgiving or Christmas. However, Dr. Andrew Pavia of the University of Utah Health, chief of pediatric infectious disease, says that "getting vaccinated anytime during flu season will still prove beneficial."
Can the flu vaccine keep me from getting the flu?
No. There is no vaccine that is 100% effective. Pavia states that if you do get the influenza, it will likely reduce the chances of getting sick or being hospitalized. Before last year, thousands died or were hospitalized from flu-related complications every year. This was mostly due to people who hadn't been vaccinated.
Is it possible to get both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines simultaneously?
Yes. Grohskopf says that although the CDC had recommended that the COVID-19 and other vaccines be given at different times, "that guidance has changed." She says that the CDC now recommends getting both vaccines simultaneously. The body's immune system and side effects are the same when receiving both vaccines simultaneously. You can expect to receive two shots in one day. This may decrease pain and swelling.
Can I get my COVID-19 booster shot at the same time?
Only certain immunocompromised people are allowed to receive third doses COVID-19 vaccine. You can receive the extra dose along with the flu shot if you are eligible. Lisa Kalajian (district manager at CVS), stated that once boosters are approved, "we'll also be able co-administer those shots as well."
Q: I am anxious about the delta variant of the flu. What are the other options?
You can call the provider to ensure that you are not masked if you are concerned. You can also check your local clinics for outdoor flu shot clinics if you are still concerned.
How can I ensure that I get the best flu shot for my family and me?
Pavia says that while it is important to get the flu shot every year, there are flu shots that are more specific for certain groups. Age is often the key.
Children 8 years old and under who receive the flu shot for their first time must have two doses. They should be given one month apart. Dr. Flor MunozRivas, a Baylor College of Medicine pediatric infectious disease specialist, said that children eight years of age or younger will need to get two doses. She says strong immunity does not kick in until two to three weeks after the second shot. Parents should schedule these shots immediately.
As we age, our immune systems become less resilient. The CDC recommends that all adults over 65 get vaccinated against flu by either the Fluzone High Dose Quadrivalent vaccine, or the FLUAD Quadrivalent vaccination. Both vaccines are intended to produce a stronger immune response. Any flu shot can be used if neither of these options is available.
I'm pregnant. Do I need a flu shot or should I wait?
Yes. The CDC recommends that you get a flu shot as soon as you are pregnant. This will allow you to pass the protection on to your baby from day one. Grohskopf says that while babies can't have the flu shot until 6 months of age, they are protected by the antibodies their mothers receive from a flu shot if they get it up to six months. After that time they will be able to get their own flu vaccine. Make sure you get the shot and not the nasal spray.
I was told that I couldn't get the flu shot because I have an egg allergy. Is this true?
Grohskopf, CDC, disagrees.
Although most flu shots and the nasal spray flu vaccine have been approved by FDA, they are made using egg-based technology. They contain very little egg proteins. However, allergic reactions to both shots and nasal spray were very rare according to studies.
Flublok Quadrivalent is available for people aged 18 or older and Flucelvax Quadrivalent is available for those 2 years and over. The CDC states that anyone with an egg allergy can receive any licensed flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that you get your flu shot at a facility where staff can help you if you experience an allergic reaction.
I'm willing and able to take my chances. So why should I get the flu shot?
The pandemic is still in full swing, so skipping the flu shot can be risky, according to Dr. Bernard Camins of Mount Sinai Health System, New York City. You could catch the flu, get COVID and then find your hospitals overwhelmed. You run the risk that your immune system is overwhelmed by multiple viruses, especially if you have not been vaccinated against coronavirus. Back-to-back infections can lead to more severe illness because the first infection already has weakened your lungs. Dr. Priya Nori, an infectious diseases specialist at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, warns that this could increase your risk of developing more severe illnesses.
Do I need to wear a mask if I am already vaccinated against COVID-19?
Not at all. Pavia says, "Don't stop public health measures." You can reduce the chance of getting the flu or COVID-19 by distancing yourself, using a mask, and washing your hands after you have had a few coughs and sneezes.
