Flu season is here! The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important now than ever to receive the flu vaccine. Evidence clearly shows that a flu vaccine can reduce the severity of the flu and prevent hospitalizations. By getting a flu vaccine this year, it will not only help protect you, but also protect frontline healthcare workers and hospital systems who continue to combat COVID-19. While the flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, there are other benefits from the vaccine. These benefits include saving healthcare resources for the care of patients with COVID-19 and reducing the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older get the flu vaccine. The vaccine last year may not protect you against the flu this year. It is important to continue to get the flu vaccine every year. It is imperative for individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible to build immunity against the flu. The CDC recommends receiving your flu vaccine by the end of October. It takes up to two weeks for immunity to build up, so go get your flu vaccine today!

In order to get vaccinated against the flu contact DOH-Collier, your healthcare provider, or pharmacy to receive your flu vaccine.

DOH-Collier recommends taking these everyday precautions to help keep you protected from the flu this season:

• Stay home if you are sick. Keep children home from school and daycare if they are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap is not available, use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
• Cough or sneeze into your shirt sleeve, elbow, or tissue. Throw tissues away immediately after use.
• COVID-19 prevention measures such as social distancing and wearing a face mask or cloth face covering may help to prevent the flu.

The flu vaccine is safe and continues to be the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.