Why is it important to get a flu shot?
The CDC believes it is likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading this fall and winter. Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever.
Influenza, or flu, is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that infects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and may sometimes result in death.
Even though flu viruses are found year-round in the United States, the most common flu season is fall/winter. Cases begin to rise in October, usually peak in December – February, and can linger into early spring.
People of all ages can get flu, and the health risks can be severe. Some people are more susceptible to infection, particularly people over age 65, and those with certain chronic health conditions (diabetes, heart disease), pregnant women, and children under age 5. The CDC recommends that all people 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine.
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get a flu vaccine each year.
Flu vaccine fun fact:
“During 2018-2019, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 4.4 million influenza illnesses, 2.3 million influenza-associated medical visits, 58,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations, and 3,500 influenza-associated deaths.” (CDC.gov)
Important information from the CDC:
- About flu: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html
- How flu spreads: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm
- This flu season: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/index.html
- Benefits of flu vaccination: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccine-benefits.htm