The influenza (flu) season is upon us, and it’s time to fight the flu! Public Health, Delta & Menominee Counties (PHDM) reminds you to protect yourself, your family, and the community this fall and winter by getting both your seasonal flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine. Getting vaccinated is the best way to stay healthy. It is both safe and effective to get the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and above get the flu shot in order to be protected from the flu and from severe complications. “Complications from the flu can happen to anyone, but especially babies, children under 5 years of age, people with health issues, and older adults. The flu vaccine reduces your risk of hospitalization and death, reduces the severity of illness, and reduces the risk for major cardiac events,” states Jennie Miller, PHDM Communicable Disease and Immunization Coordinator. The flu vaccine also protects and reduces severe illness in pregnant women and their babies. Mothers pass along antibodies to their infants so that they are protected from severe influenza illness until they can get vaccinated at 6 months old. “Getting vaccinated means preventing missed work days, school days, fun events, and quality family time,” notes Miller.
In addition to flu, COIVD-19 continues to circulate, with the Omicron variant causing most of the illnesses. It is predicted that COVID-19 cases will rise this fall and winter at the same time flu is spreading. The updated bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters are expected to provide increased protection against the Omicron variant. The CDC recommends that anyone 12 years of age and above stay up to date on vaccinations by getting a booster dose of the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months after completing their primary COVID-19 series or latest COVID-19 booster dose.
The best time to get your flu shot is in September and October. It is also a great time to get an updated COVID-19 booster! Both vaccines are currently available at PHDM, and both vaccines can be administered at the same appointment. Call today to schedule your appointment! Delta Office: (906) 786-4111; Menominee Office: (906) 863-4451.
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