Last year we had flu and COVID spreading around West Hartford causing many of us to cancel our favorite holiday plans. This year we also have to worry about Monkeypox as well (a triple threat). Let’s not make the mistake of skipping out on our flu shots and COVID-19 booster shots, so we can actually spend time with our family and friends this winter season. 

Now is the time to get both vaccines. As new information emerges about the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent outbreak of Monkeypox, AFC Urgent Care West Hartford will be here to help you stay informed, get flu protected, and COVID tested this season.

New updates for the 2022 flu vaccines

The CDC has information and updates for the flu vaccine in 2022 that you should know.

To better prepare seniors, there is now a quadrivalent high-dose vaccine that replaces the former trivalent dose. The second one is a quadrivalent adjuvanted vaccine for the elderly that has an additional influenza B component.  

What happens If I catch COVID-19 and the Flu?

We really hope that this does not happen. 

Research has shown that it is possible to get more than one respiratory infection while having COVID-19. We hope that it doesn’t come to this and that is why we highly suggest you get vaccinated for the flu. This way, we can at least rule out the flu when trying to diagnose COVID-19. If you get both it will be hard to diagnose and treat.

What If I Catch Monkeypox This Flu Season?

According to the CDC, there has been an increase in Monkeypox cases in the U.S. and worldwide in recent months. Despite the fact that Monkeypox (MPV) has been detected in several countries in Africa, there has been a dramatic increase in cases and hence concerns for the safety of our families and friends here in West Hartford and surrounding CT. 

Symptoms may overlap with the common cold, but you will know it is Monkeypox if you notice a rash or bumps.

Other symptoms of Monkeypox include:

• Rash or Lesions (the most obvious symptom)
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backaches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion

As we’ve learned to take hygiene more seriously because of COVID, the same principles apply when avoiding Monkeypox. For instance, wearing a mask, washing your hands, isolating if you do get Monkeypox, getting vaccinated, etc. 

It’s best to follow up with The CDC guidelines on Monkeypox and how it’s spreading to avoid it this winter.

For information on the latest COVID booster and the Monkey Pox vaccine centers, please visit your local pharmacy or check the CT state dph website for a link to available locations.

Get your Flu Shot Today!

Don’t delay your flu shot or any vaccine needed to keep you healthy during the holiday season. Let’s not make the same mistake as last year by skipping out on your COVID booster shot either. If you or a loved one is worried about the flu you can come to our AFC Urgent Care center in West Hartford any day of the week. We are open 7 days a week and offer the newly updated quadrivalent flu shot and COVID-19 testing to give you a peace of mind this season.

We accept most insurances and offer appointments online as well!