Health Officials Recommend Flu Vaccination Ahead Of Holidays

vaccine-safe-9
vaccine-safe-9

Everyone is being encouraged to get a flu shot to protect themselves and others this holiday season. Terri Adams with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services tells us the flu season has already been heavy in many states.

“We know it’s just around the corner, and flu season is upon us, and we’re just expecting any day now for our numbers to reflect that high flu season,” Adams said.

Adams says this year is worse because of the high number of RSV infections and COVID. She notes when you get a flu shot, your chances of having a severe case of the illness are greatly reduced.

“It takes a couple of weeks once we get out flu vaccine, and then anywhere from 40 to 70% effectiveness after a couple of weeks of getting vaccinated. That’s better than zero. If you don’t get vaccinated at all, you have no protection.”

The state health department is promoting flu vaccinations with a few weeks left to go before Christmas and the new year. Adams says the shots are recommended for everyone age six months and older. You can get a flu shot for little or no cost at many pharmacies and health departments.