Over the past year, we have learned a lot about vaccines because of COVID-19. The influenza season of 2020-2021 was a very mild one because of social distancing, hand washing and consistent mask wearing; however, influenza numbers are not expected to remain low for the 2021-2022 season. Children have returned to school and adults have gone back to work. In addition to getting vaccinated for COVID-19, it is important to receive a flu shot this year.During the 2019-2020 flu season, about 60,000 people died from the flu.
The CDC recommends flu shots for anyone 6 months and above.The flu shot is made every season based on data of the most prevalent flu strains. The flu shot will not prevent you from getting the flu, but it may help prevent severe illness from the flu that could lead to hospitalization or even death. The flu shot works by exposing your immune system to parts of the flu virus and then your immune system responds by making antibodies that attach to the virus and prevent it from infecting more cells. Two weeks after you receive the flu shot, your body has made antibodies and is ready to fight off the flu if you contract it.
COVID 19 cases are expected to rise during the winter of 2021. Hospitals are likely to continue to run at maximum capacity. It is important to prevent influenza cases that could lead to hospitalizations and put more strain on our hospital systems.
If you have questions or concerns about the flu shot, please reach out to your primary care doctor to discuss further.
