As the world anxiously awaits the arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine, all of us at Green County Public Health want to remind individuals about an existing vaccine that is available right now — the flu vaccine.
Fall and winter are quickly approaching, and with them will come flu season. No one can know for sure what flu season will look like during this global pandemic, but it’s better to prepare than despair.
There is some good news — the precautions that people are currently taking (mask wearing, physical distancing, hand washing and more) will also help prevent the spread of the flu. However, one of the best precautions that individuals can take is getting a flu shot.
This year, getting a flu shot is more important than ever. It’s likely that the flu and COVID-19 will be spreading at the same time, and getting vaccinated will help protect you, your loved ones and the community. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that the health of an individual is affected by the health of their community.
The flu and COVID-19 can have very similar symptoms, making it difficult to tell the difference if someone is sick with the flu or COVID-19 based solely on symptoms. And, yes, someone could have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.
The simultaneous spread of COVID-19 and the flu will be difficult for everyone, which is why it is imperative that people take action now to prevent the spread. The physical effects that the flu and COVID-19 have on people can be long lasting or life threatening, creating hardship among families and communities. The unknown of whether someone who is feeling ill has the flu or COVID-19 may cause frustration for employers and schools as employees and students stay at home. The possible increase in people experiencing flu/COVID-19 like symptoms may cause an additional hardship among health care providers. These difficulties can be lessened through preventative measures. People who get the flu vaccine will be helping protect themselves and others.
In a recent press release the Wisconsin Department of Health Services reported that last year “42% of Wisconsinites received at least one dose of flu vaccine, leaving nearly two-thirds of people at higher risk of getting the flu.” They went on to say that there were 36,175 flu cases, 4,425 flu-related hospitalizations, and 183 deaths during Wisconsin’s 2019-2020 flu season.
Anyone who is 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine this year. There are certain groups of people who are especially encouraged to get a flu shot: health care workers, people over the age of 65, people who live long term care facilities, people with underlying medical conditions, and infants. Individuals who aren’t a part of one of these demographics should still get vaccinated.
Individuals should plan to get their flu shot in September or October. There are lots of options for where to get vaccinated - including local pharmacies, health care providers, and even some employers. Individuals should reach out to their primary care provider or employer about getting a flu shot. People can also visit vaccinefinder.org to find a location near them to get their flu shot. And don’t forget to wear your mask when you go get vaccinated!
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught people a lot about how to prevent getting sick. Everyone now has their own infection prevention “toolbox”; filled with masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant, and the knowledge to physically distance, and cover coughs and sneezes. As the world continues to move through this pandemic everyone’s toolbox will grow as more research is done and more is known about the virus that causes COVID-19. Right now it is time to add to your toolbox by getting a flu shot. While this vaccine doesn’t protect against COVID-19, it will help keep you, your family and your community healthy. You can help prevent the spread of the flu and reduce the impact it can have on the Green County community.
— Bridget Craker is the Public Health Educator for the Green County Public Health Department. She can be reached at bcraker@greengountywi.org or 608-328-9509.
