Urgent Reminder: Get Your Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines Before the Holiday Season
As winter approaches and the holiday season nears, health officials are urging everyone to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines now. These vaccines are critical ahead of the winter months when respiratory infections, like flu and COVID-19, are more likely to spread. While both flu and COVID-19 cases have remained relatively low so far this fall, experts warn that both viruses typically surge during the colder months.
COVID-19 cases usually begin to rise around Thanksgiving and peak in January, coinciding with flu season, which also peaks during January or February. It takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity after vaccination, making it crucial to get vaccinated ahead of time.
Why Get Vaccinated?
This year, both flu and COVID-19 vaccines have been updated to target the most recent strains of the viruses. These updated vaccines offer protection against severe illness or death. According to Dr. Demetre Daskalakis from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), while vaccines may not prevent every infection, they significantly reduce the severity of illness. He emphasized the importance by saying:
“I would rather have my grandmother or my great-grandmother have a sniffle than have to go to the emergency room on Thanksgiving.”
Updated Vaccines for Greater Protection
While many people are familiar with the concept of “boosters”, this year’s vaccines go beyond just additional doses of last year’s formulations. Both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines have been specifically reformulated to address new mutations in these viruses, offering enhanced protection.
These vaccines provide a crucial line of defense, particularly for vulnerable groups such as:
- The elderly
- Pregnant women
- Those with weakened immune systems
Vaccination Safety and Recommendations
For those concerned about receiving multiple vaccines, the CDC confirms that it is safe to receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. Moreover, if you’re at higher risk for respiratory illnesses, such as those with lung or heart conditions, staying ahead of potential outbreaks is essential.
In addition, the CDC recommends an RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine for those over 75 and others at high risk. RSV can cause severe illness, particularly in young children and older adults.
Accessing Vaccines
Most vaccines are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. For individuals without insurance, local health departments may be able to offer assistance. The CDC is working to improve vaccine access across the country to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to get vaccinated.
Find a Vaccine Location Near You
Visit vaccines.gov for more information and to find vaccine locations near you.
