Flu season comes around every year and despite the reoccurrence, there’s still staggeringly high numbers of flu cases year after year. Experts believe that many of those cases can be avoided if patients are educated on the risks and the steps they can take to protect themselves. It may seem early to be talking about flu season, but it will be here before you know it! 

The Importance of the Flu Shot

Getting a flu shot is the easiest way to reduce your risk of contracting the flu during flu season. Flu shots are over 80% effective at preventing the flu! Anyone who is over 6 months of age is eligible for a flu shot and they’re covered by most major insurance companies. With little to no side effects from the vaccine, protecting your health this flu season is as easy as one quick shot! Getting your flu shot is important not just for your own health, but for the health of your entire community. 

Battling the Flu and COVID-19

This flu season is unique because health care workers won’t just be battling the flu season, they’ll still be battling COVID-19 as well. Areas with a high number of COVID-19 cases are already struggling to make room in hospitals, so an influx of flu cases will make it even more difficult to care for every patient that needs it. Some symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are similar too, so distinguishing the two will lead to even more COVID-19 tests needing to be run through already busy labs. By getting a flu shot, you’re reducing your risk of contributing to that problem by 80%! 

Staying Safe 

The best time to get your flu shot is before the peak of flu season to ensure you’re protected. The peak of flu season varies each year, so the sooner you get vaccinated, the better! Flu shots typically become available during September, but you can contact your local urgent care center to find out exactly when they’ll have them ready for patients. In addition to getting your flu shot you should continue to wear a mask, socially distance from others, and sanitize surfaces regularly. Those things will help reduce your risk of both the flu and COVID-19. If you feel sick, stay home until you can get tested for COVID-19 and/or the flu to determine what your next steps should be. 

Contact your local urgent care center today to learn more about the 2020 flu season and the latest COVID-19 data in your area!