There are many different flu viruses and they are constantly changing. Now add to that Covid-19 and you may wonder how the elderly will survive the 2020-2021 flu season (October through March). There are two new vaccines licensed for use during this upcoming flu season. One is specifically for older adults - a high-dose vaccine for use in adults 65 years and older. September and October are generally the best time to get vaccinated. Currently, vaccine manufacturers are reporting that vaccines will be readily available without any significant delays. Simultaneously these manufacturers are working diligently for the approval of a Covid-19 vaccine.
The flu and Covid-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses that are caused by different viruses. For this reason, you will need to be vaccinated for both to prevent both illnesses. It is possible to have the flu and Covid-19 at the same time although health experts believe this to be uncommon. Since the symptoms for both are so similar, the 2020-2021 flu season will require significant testing capabilities to determine which illness is present when symptoms exist.
Getting a flu vaccine will not protect against Covid-19; however, flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. Getting a flu vaccine this fall will be more important than ever not only to reduce your risk from the flu but also to help conserve potentially scarce healthcare resources.
You can safely get a flu vaccine at multiple locations including your doctor's office, health department and pharmacies. The CDC will announce who can get Covid-19 vaccines and where to get them once a vaccine is approved by the FDA and made publicly available. When going to get any vaccine be sure to practice safety precautions such as wearing a mask, social distancing and frequent handwashing.
Many people at higher risk from flu are also in the high-risk category for Covid-19. If you are high risk, it is especially important for you to get a flu vaccine this year. The timing of the flu is difficult to predict and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Vaccinations should be postponed for anyone with suspected or confirmed Covid-19 regardless of whether they have symptoms. When scheduling or confirming appointments for vaccinations notify the provider's office in advance if you currently have or develop any symptoms of Covid-19. The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated every year.
During these trying times, Stouffer Legal strives to provide updated information the help the seniors in our Maryland communities. Contact us for more information on Elder Law issues.
