As we move into the winter months we are met with the spread of influenza as well as COVID-19. Health officials in the United States are advising getting a flu shot this year may not only combat the spread of the flu but also reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Preliminary research suggests a flu vaccine meant to fight against the flu virus may also trigger the body to produce broader infection-fighting molecules that combat the coronavirus. During a new study researchers found workers who received a flu vaccine were 39% less likely to test positive for the coronavirus while a little over two percent of non-vaccinated employees tested positive. While these findings do not prove that flu vaccines prevent COVID-19. Nonetheless, at the very least getting the flu shot, it will protect you from the flu.
Who should get vaccinated? The CDC strongly recommends anyone six months of older should get the flu vaccination every year. It also highly suggests essential workers, adults 65 and older and infants and young children with risk of serious influenza complications get the flu vaccination.
Why get vaccinated? The flu, a potentially serious disease, can lead to hospitalization and sometimes death. To help reduce the overall impact of respiratory illnesses as well as lessen the burden on the healthcare system while still combating the COVID-19 pandemic you should get your flu shot. Most importantly getting a vaccination can keep you and those around you from getting sick with the flu.
Does the vaccination work? Yes, flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are used to make the vaccine.
Talk to someone in our office about getting a flu vaccine this fall call 609-278-5900. Our staff is ready to answer your questions.
This information was originally posted on cdc.gov and scientificamerican.com.
