"
There are so many changes that have occurred during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Will it change the way you prepare for the flu season this year? The flu season is coming and you must ensure that you prevent catching the flu infection. You never know how the flu season will turn out, but thousands of infections and hospitalizations occur each year. You have to prepare for the flu season by taking the necessary precautions that will keep the influenza virus at bay and preserve your health. Here are some key things to keep in mind as you prepare.
The Right Time to Get the Flu Shot
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the flu vaccine between early September and late October. While the influenza virus is active year-round, from September through the spring, it spreads significantly, and typically peaks between December and February. You don’t want to get the vaccine too early – before September – and run the risk of the protection it’s meant to provide diminishing before the flu season ends. Remember it takes roughly two weeks to produce an adequate supply of antibodies from the influenza vaccine to protect you from catching the flu. You don’t want to be left vulnerable because you got the flu shot too soon. The flu season could be a long one, and as such, you can still get the flu shot through winter to early spring.
Can Flu, Other respiratory illnesses, and COVID-19 Coinfection Occur at the Same Time?
Can someone get the flu, other respiratory illnesses, and COVID-19 at the same time? While this occurrence is rare, it is possible for coinfection with more than one respiratory illness. Screening studies have indicated the occurrence of COVID-19-influenza coinfection and that screening of patients is required to diagnose coinfection and determine a proper estimate of its occurrence. There are some shared symptoms between the flu and COVID-19, such as fever, fatigue, and headache, and this can make it challenging to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic testing is useful in differentiating between the flu and COVID-19.
Will the Flu Vaccination Provide Any Protection Against COVID-19
COVID-19 and the flu infection are two different illnesses, and although they share some similar symptoms, the flu vaccine cannot provide any protection against COVID-19. The influenza vaccine is meant to provide immunity against flu viruses alone. If you have been infected with the coronavirus and are showing symptoms, but have already gotten your flu shot, this will allow your doctor to better arrive at a correct diagnosis of your illness based on the symptoms presented.
Walk-In Flu Shots in Hillsdale, NJ
Stick to getting your yearly flu shot because your health depends on it. Visit your local urgent care center or walk-in clinic and get vaccinated against the flu. AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale can provide you with quality service and thorough care. Let’s help keep you safe this flu season.
"
