Why Flu Shots Are Especially Important During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Girl receiving flu shot

During a bad flu year, a significant number of people may become gravely ill with influenza and require hospitalization. That’s one reason why medical experts urge everyone to get an annual flu shot, preferably right before cold and flu season begins in earnest.

Now, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, that message is especially urgent. That’s because hospitals, doctors, nurses, urgent care centers, and patients will soon be dealing with the effects of two widely circulating and potentially serious viruses: influenza and the novel coronavirus 2019. Due to the unpredictable nature of COVID-19 and its continually emerging variants, it is essential to take steps to prevent influenza illnesses, not only to keep people healthy but also to reduce the strain on hospitals and medical professionals.

Shared Symptoms

Another reason why flu shots are so critical is that flu symptoms can be very similar to COVID-19 symptoms, including:

  • A persistent dry cough
  • Fever and chills
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • A sore throat

Therefore, if there is less flu spreading throughout the community, medical professionals will be more inclined to suspect COVID-19 when a patient presents with those symptoms and treat it accordingly.

A panel of vaccine experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu shots for everyone age six months and older. The doctors at South Tampa Immediate Care agree that receiving a yearly flu vaccination is the single most effective way to avoid getting sick with influenza and to prevent its spread throughout the population. What’s more, in addition to practicing social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing your hands, getting an annual flu shot is one of the best ways to stay healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To learn more, stop by South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, today.