With mask mandates being lifted in most places and events in the recent months, you’re probably wondering what’s going to happen when everyone goes inside for social gatherings this 2022 winter season. If you remember last year, many of you got sick with Omicron and the flu. This year, we now have to worry about Monkeypox as well!
Lucky for you, AFC Urgent Care Malden now offers the highly effective quadrivalent flu shot as well as COVID-19 testing to help give you peace of mind when visiting family this winter season. Here’s how to avoid all three viruses.
Should I Get Vaccinated For Both COVID-19 And The Flu?
In short, yes!
You may have seen other questions circulating across the internet like “does a flu shot protect me from COVID”, and vice versa. But to be clear, a flu shot will not protect you from COVID-19. Getting vaccinated for the flu means you’re protected against this year’s flu strains. 2 seperate viruses.
This is why you need both a flu shot for the flu season and to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to protect against that as well. If you haven’t gotten vaccinated for COVID-19 yet, the CDC states that you can get both at the same time.
Monkeypox Is Also A Threat For The Holiday Season!
COVID and the flu are not the only virus to worry about anymore. In recent months, the CDC has reported an outbreak of Monkeypox in the U.S. You shouldn’t underestimate this virus or stereotype it either. It is highly contagious and easily transmissible no matter the gender or nationality. It can easily be transmitted like COVID and Flu through respiratory droplets, or by hugging, kissing, sharing personal items and even sex.
The most common symptoms of Monkeypox are:
- Rash or Lesions (the most obvious symptom)
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Backaches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Exhaustion
The point is…it is a virus you don’t want to get. Stay informed with the CDC guidelines about Monkeypox here.
Don’t Wait. Get The Flu Vaccine Today!
AFC Urgent Care Malden cannot stress it enough: All eligible should get vaccinated for both the flu and COVID-19. You can walk in or make an appointment online for a flu shot. The CDC recommends getting your Flu shot between September and October, but before the flu season begins!
AFC in Malden also offers COVID-19 testing 7 days a week with results on the same day with our Rapid COVID-19 testing services.
For information on the latest COVID booster and the Monkey Pox vaccine centers, please visit your local pharmacy or check the Massachusetts DPH website for a link to available locations.
