PWHD COVID-19 Response Information Update

Friday, 02 Jul 2021

The Prince William Health District What You Should Know:

Flu Vaccine, 2021-2022 Flu Season

Local pharmacies and healthcare providers are already advertising “flu” (influenza) shots. So, what should you know right now?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all people six months of age and older receive a flu vaccine every year.
Those younger than six months old and those with severe, life-threatening allergies to flu vaccines or any ingredient in the vaccines are the only people who should not take the flu shot.
For more on "who should or should not" get a flu vaccine, click here: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/whoshouldvax.htm

Why you should get a flu vaccine

Getting a flu shot this year is crucial for several reasons:

Without being protected, you can have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.
You can protect yourself and others from flu-related illness, hospitalization, and possible death by getting a flu shot.
CDC estimates annually since 2010, there are between 9 million – 45 million flu-related illnesses, between 140,000 – 810,000 hospitalizations, and between 12,000 – 61,000 deaths annually since 2010. Click here for more on the numbers: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html

You should get vaccinated before flu viruses begin spreading in your area. Once vaccinated, it takes about two weeks for your body to develop antibodies to protect against the flu.

VDH and the CDC recommend getting vaccinated against the flu by the end of October.
You can get your flu shot at the same time you get your other vaccines, such as a COVID-19 vaccine, a third COVID-19 vaccine (if eligible), or other routine vaccines.

Where to Get a Flu Vaccine