Monday, December 06, 2021
The week of December 5-11, 2021 is known as National Influenza Vaccination Week (or Flu Awareness Week) when we highlight the importance of getting vaccinated against the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone 6 months or older receive the flu vaccine every year. They also announced that individuals can get both the flu shot and the COVID-19 shot at the same time. There is no need to wait in-between each vaccine.
Vaccination is especially important for those who are at a high risk of severe complications or adverse health outcomes from influenza (such as older adults 65 and older). To see a complete list of all CDC health and age factors that are known to increase an individual’s risk of serious complications from the flu, please see here.
AgeGuide strongly recommends that those who are eligible receive their flu vaccine by visiting their primary care doctor or local pharmacy. There is still time to get your flu vaccine in preparation for the upcoming holidays. Here are just some of the many benefits to getting the flu vaccine:
- Provides protection and immunity to prevent you from getting infected with the influenza virus.
- If you do get sick with the flu, severity of illness is likely to be reduced.
- Reduces the risk of flu-associated hospitalization.
- Protect those around you.
Resources
Who Needs a Flu Vaccine? (CDC)
What are the benefits of the flu vaccine? (CDC)
