Influenza, COVID-19, and the Vaccines that Help Us
Are getting Influenza and COVID-19 immunizations necessary?
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
Influenza and COVID-19 viruses continue to pose potential risks to public health. For most people, vaccines offer the safest, most effective protection against these illnesses. Health officials recommend these vaccines. Let’s consider why, how they work, and the benefits they offer.
The Influenza vaccine.
Influenza (commonly called the “flu”) is a respiratory illness. It is caused by various influenza viruses. It spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets. Influenza results in mild to severe illness and can lead to death.
The Influenza (“flu”) shot is an annual vaccine that causes your body to develop antibodies. These antibodies help your body fight against the influenza virus. Scientists predict which flu strains will occur most often during the year. Then, they update the vaccine to maximize effectiveness.
Key benefits of the flu shot:
- Prevention of illness: The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of getting Influenza by up to 60%.
- Reduction in severity: Catching the flu after vaccination is possible. However, vaccinated individuals typically have milder symptoms and a lower risk of hospitalization.
- Protection for vulnerable groups: Widespread vaccinations in a population help protect susceptible individuals from influenza exposure and illness. Those most vulnerable to influenza include pregnant women, infants, and seniors. Persons with chronic illnesses or compromised immune systems are also more susceptible.
The COVID-19 vaccine.
Like Influenza, COVID-19 is also an infectious disease. It can cause mild to severe illness and death. However, COVID-19 is caused by coronavirus variants. Compared to the flu, COVID-19 is more contagious and more likely to cause severe illness.
The COVID-19 vaccine, by design, "boosts" your body’s immune response. It teaches your immune system to recognize and release antibodies against the virus.
Key benefits of the COVID-19 booster:
- Enhanced protection: The COVID-19 vaccine significantly increases immunity. Thus, it reduces the risk of severe illness, life-threatening complications, and death.
- Targeted immunity: Updated vaccines offer better protection against the most recent COVID-19 variants.
- Community health: Widespread vaccinations reduce the spread of viruses. This helps protect vulnerable individuals and those unable to take the vaccine.
Why getting both vaccinations is important.
The Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are separate immunizations that protect against different viruses. Getting both vaccines is important for several reasons:
- Concurrent spread of viruses: Influenza and COVID-19 can spread through a population at the same time. Being vaccinated against each virus is the best method for reducing your risk of illness.
- Avoiding Co-infection: Getting influenza and COVID-19 at the same time could cause severe complications. Vaccination reduces this likelihood.
- Public health impact: We can help reduce the impact of influenza and COVID-19. A high vaccination rate reduces the likelihood of severe complications.
Frequently asked questions.
Can I get both vaccines at the same time?
Yes, getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit is generally safe. You can choose whether to receive the vaccines at the same or separate appointments.
Are there any side effects?
Some individuals may experience side effects, which are typically mild for either vaccine. Common side effects are generally short-lived. They can include tenderness at the injection site, low-grade fever, and fatigue.
How often do I need these shots?
Health officials recommend the flu vaccine annually. Flu variants change and typically surge between October and April of each year. The CDC currently recommends that everyone receive an updated 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine.
Protect yourself and your community.
Vaccines are not merely about individual protection. They're also about safeguarding the health of our families and communities. More vaccinated people help minimize the spread of these viruses. Thus reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Determining your need for an Influenza and COVID-19 vaccine is up to you. If you are unsure, seek the input of your healthcare provider and get information from credible sources.
The Moultrie County Health Department will offer 2024 Influenza and 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccines beginning in October. We will print our clinic dates in local papers and post them on our website and Facebook page. You can also contact our office. We’ll gladly answer your questions about the vaccine or help you schedule an appointment.