National Influenza Vaccination Week reminds us the first week of December each year that we all have a role to play in preventing the spread of seasonal flu. It is a matter of saving lives.
The flu is a serious illness caused by influenza viruses that affect the nose and throat. It can be passed onto others when people who are infected cough, sneeze or talk. In many cases, symptoms can be much more severe than a runny nose or sore throat.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated every year, and that those over 65 years of age get the high dose flu vaccine. Vaccines limit the spread of the flu and protect people who are most vulnerable.
October marks the start of flu season. It typically hits its peak between December and February and can run as late as May. With the winter season approaching, Immunize Nevada wants you to know there’s still time to get your flu shot.
The burden of the flu
Millions of people get sick from the flu in the United States each year. CDC data suggest it infects around 8% of the population on average. This takes a dramatic toll on productivity in the workplace and the classroom. Here’s a look at the steep cost of the flu:
• Overall national economic burden of $83.3 billion for adults 18 and older
• Direct medical costs of $8.7 billion
• Indirect costs totaling $6.2 billion every year mainly from lost productivity
• The loss of 17 million workdays among adults ages 18-64
But that is not the worst of it. The flu can also lead to severe health consequences. The CDC estimates an average of over 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths associated with influenza each year.
Some people are more likely to experience serious complications from the flu, including:
• People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease
• Anyone younger than 5 or older than 65
• Pregnant people
Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent flu-related illness.
It’s more important than ever to protect yourself against influenza with COVID-19 still spreading in our communities. No one wants to be sick with COVID-19 and the flu at the same time. Luckily, vaccines can be given for both of these illnesses at once.
Staying up to date on your vaccinations helps ease the strain on our healthcare system by preventing hospitalizations and other urgent doctor visits. And remember that receiving a flu vaccine can’t give you the flu.
Answer the call this National Influenza Vaccination Week to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. Remind your friends and family to do the same.
Getting a flu shot is easy and convenient while you are out and about. Immunize Nevada provides access to free and low-cost vaccine clinics. Find a list at https://www.immunizenevada.org (click the Find Vaccine Clinics button).
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