Flu season is here and during this season, we want to highlight National Flu Vaccination Week. Observed December 2-6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states National Flu Vaccination Week was created to remind everyone that people “six months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions.” In this article, we will discuss the benefits of getting a flu shot and where to get them.
Why medically fragile people should get a flu shot
Hygiene practices during flu season such as wearing masks, washing hands and social distancing can help lower the spread of the flu. However, infections are back on the rise. Forecasts from the CDC suggest that this respiratory disease season will be similar to last year’s — which brought more than 20 hospitalizations for every 100,000 people in one week at its peak — and far worse than in pre-pandemic years. In an article by Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic Minute: Why you and your family need a flu shot, Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse says, “We’re all the more dependent on the antibodies from vaccination to protect us” during this flu season. This protection is needed even more for those who are medically fragile.
Managing infections is more difficult for people with compromised immune systems, and contracting the flu can lead to hospitalization and fatal consequences. According to the CDC, “Vaccination is particularly important for people who are immunocompromised or medically fragile [including those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressive medications] because they face a higher risk of serious complications from influenza.” While the vaccine doesn’t fully prevent the flu, it can lessen the severity of the illness and reduce the chance of further worsening underlying health conditions and hospitalization.
Check out our previous blog, Preventing Seasonal Illness in Immunocompromised People, where we discuss the dangers of infections such as the cold, flu and other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19, especially for those who are immunocompromised or medically fragile
Why pediatric patients should get a flu shot
Children and teens should also be vaccinated to reduce the spread of influenza and reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. A flu shot can protect a child against severe illness that could lead to serious complications like pneumonia, sinus infections, or exacerbation of chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes. Additionally, children getting the flu shot can also reduce the risk of contracting long-term health implications. While rare, the flu can lead to severe complications such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or long-term respiratory issues. Vaccination minimizes these risks (CDC).
Another factor to consider is that schools have high transmission rates because children and teens engage in social activities where germs spread easily. Vaccinations not only protect children and teens but also reduce the risk of passing the virus to others, including vulnerable groups like infants, elderly individuals or immunocompromised family members. Additionally, vaccinated children can contribute to herd immunity at the school. When a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, it limits the overall spread of the virus, protecting those who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical reasons.
Children who have the flu shot are at a reduced risk of missing school and extracurricular activities – giving them more time to stay on track academically and engaged with their peers.
Lastly, flu vaccines are widely available, safe, and well-tolerated in older children and teens, with side effects generally being mild and short-lived, such as soreness at the injection site.
Where to get a flu shot
Some grocery stores and pharmacies provide free and low-cost flu vaccines. Many also have incentive programs, rewarding those who get flu vaccinations with gift cards, discounts, and shopping coupons. Alternatively, you can get a flu shot from your primary care physician. To find a local distributor you can use the CDC VaccineFinder and enter your zip code, choose a pharmacy, and check appointment availability.
In conclusion, being aware of resources to protect yourself and loved ones during flu season is extremely important. National Flu Vaccination Week serves as a reminder that the flu can affect anyone, so it is important to get the vaccine for those six months and older to avoid the risk of health complications, hospitalization, and long-term health conditions. There are many places that offer the flu shot for free or very little cost to help keep the public safe, so you should prioritize your health and take advantage of these resources as soon as possible.
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