Influenza, or "The Flu"
Shady Lane has started to administer Influenza Vaccines to our residents and staff. With emerging variants of coronavirus spreading across the United States and traditional flu season ramping up, it’s important to get a flu vaccination. Experts assure that there is no harm in getting a flu shot in addition to a COVID-19 vaccine. Flu shots are recommended to protect our residents and employees from the spread of influenza. The shot should be administered unless there’s a history of a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine. If a resident has a history of a severe allergic reaction to eggs (more than hives), they should be vaccinated under the supervision of a health provider who’s able to recognize and manage the conditions. According to the CDC, flu activity peaks between December and February. It’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both spread this fall and winter. Many symptoms of the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 are similar, so it’s important to learn how to differentiate between them.
The flu vaccine is your best chance of preventing the illness, and it’s more important than ever this year. Currently, the CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for anyone over 6 months of age. In addition to getting your vaccine, there are some other ways to help protect yourself during this flu season. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home when you’re sick. It’s critical to continue good hygiene by covering your coughs and sneezes, and washing your hands. Safety measures made a positive impact on flu cases earlier this year, and they will continue to be crucial as we enter flu season.
If you’re unsure about getting a flu vaccine, here are some reasons why it’s important amid the pandemic:
– Reduces risk of contracting both viruses at the same time. Battling simultaneous flu and COVID-19 infections could be much worse than battling either alone.
– Eliminates symptom confusion between the flu and COVID-19. You’ll be less likely to get flu symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches.
– Reduces strain on the medical system. The flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses, so they rely on some of the same life-saving hospital equipment.
If you’re worried about staying healthy this flu season, please contact your doctor.