With each year that passes by comes something new. This year we face a global pandemic but also, the flu season creeping around the corner. It is now extremely important to spread the awareness of vaccinations and how beneficial it is to acquire all of them and stay up to date , not just the annual flu shot.
What is the Flu?
The Flu is caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory tract and will show as a fever/chills, cough/sore throat, muscle/body aches, and sometimes vomiting and nausea as serious symptoms. The virus is constantly changing each year to adapt to people’s immune system. This is why a new vaccine for the virus is developed each year to help combat the new adaptation.
What is the difference between the Flu and Coronavirus?
Both are respiratory viruses but are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by the Influenza Virus while Coronavirus is caused by a virus known as SARS-CoV-2. Because both viruses cause very similar signs and symptoms, appropriate testings are needed to distinguish the two.
Will the Flu Shot Protect against COVID-19?
No, the flu shot will not protect against coronavirus. A vaccination against COVID-19 is only still in clinical trials and an official vaccine is yet to be released. But there are many benefits to the Flu vaccine. It is shown to reduce the risk of the actual flu virus, hospitalizations, and death. Especially with the pandemic still going on, it is important now more than ever to get this coming flu shot. There is no telling if one can get both the flu and coronavirus at the same time. To protect against one is better than none.
When will the Flu Shot be available?
Flu Season starts around September and October and will continue through March. The vaccine will be available as early as late August and will protect through the entire season. There is no added benefit to receiving the vaccine earlier than the intended season.
Administering & Receiving the Flu Vaccine
Healthcare providers and facilities play an important role in maintaining the publics’ safety and wellness. Extra rules and regulations will be set up to ensure patients, staff, and providers are safe during the process. Face masks will be required at each and every site and to provide better service, patients should also wear loose fitted clothing for easy access to the injection site. Instruments and areas used will be sanitized before and after each person to minimize possible cross contaminations.
