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Flu season upon us, time for vaccination

Since the COVID-19 outbreak began, some people have been thinking that the coronavirus is just another kind of flu virus. The fact is that COVID-19 may have similar symptoms, but it is not like a cold, it is not the flu.

So as the flu season is approaching, health officials are urging people to get a flu shot this year. Last year’s flu outbreak was relatively mild, thanks to the precautions being taken because of COVID. Wearing masks, washing and sanitizing hands and social distancing helped stop the spread of lots of airborne illnesses, including the flu.

Today, some people may be thinking, “Hey, I got my COVID immunization, I don’t need a flu shot.” That is not true. As we said, COVID is not the flu and COVID vaccine will not protect against the flu. The flu is still a serious disease and can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable because of age and chronic conditions.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people get vaccinated against the flu in September or October. The incidence of flu may be low now, but getting protection now will help when cases start to rise.

With the rise in COVID cases due to the delta variant, hospitals and ICUs are under extra pressure. They don’t need an influx of flu patients right now.

The CDC says that flu vaccinations should be deferred for someone suspected or confirmed with COVID. The fact that flu symptoms and COVID symptoms are similar make it important to check with your physician if you are feeling sick. They can determine what you have, and what you should do to protect yourself.

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