Discover Why Getting a Flu Shot is More Important Than Ever During the COVID-19 Pandemic

There is a lot of confusion this year from people who worry that it is not a good idea to get their flu this year. In fact, the opposite is true: it might never have been as important as it is this year for you to get your flu shot. Read on to learn why this is, or just contact Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500 to make an appointment with an allergist who can oversee your shot.

Both the Flu and COVID-19 Are Respiratory Illnesses

The main issue is that influenza, aka the flu, is a respiratory illness, and so is COVID-19. This means that they both affect the lungs. It is entirely possible that you could get both at the same time. While there is much research still needed, preliminary results appear to show that having both the flu and COVID at the same time increases the chance of developing life-threatening complications.

It is Safe to Get the Flu Vaccine

There are many safety measures in place at any location you can get your flu shot, including at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group. The safety measures might include restrictions on who can enter a building, screening for common COVID symptoms, mask requirements, social distancing, and staggered appointments to prevent people from being together in the waiting room.

The Flu Vaccine Can Actually Help Fight the Pandemic

Believe it or not, getting your flu shot could actually help fight the pandemic. How? Because many people are hospitalized in a typical year when they get the flu. If we could prevent even a fraction of them from getting the flu, essential resources would be freed up to treat those with serious COVID-19 complications. In these unprecedented times during which resources are stretched, preventing the flu can help reduce that stretch.

Getting the Flu Vaccine Can Help Preserve COVID Testing

While most places now have access to as much COVID testing as they need, this is not the case everywhere. Due to the fact that COVID and the flu have many overlapping symptoms, including coughing, a high fever, and chills, it is common for a person who has the flu to be tested for COVID. Skip this need altogether by getting your flu shot and not getting the flu.

If you have questions about the flu shot, we invite you to contact your local allergist and immunologist to find out more about the flu and how it interacts with COVID. Contact Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500 now to get started.