United Against the Flu

Plan to stay healthy this flu season - Get vaccinated today!

United Against the Flu is a collaborative effort by several national health care organizations in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to amplify the importance of getting vaccinated, especially this flu season.

From October 1, 2019, through April 4, 2020, there were 410,000 – 740,000 flu hospitalizations, and more than 39 million were affected by flu-related illnesses, according to the CDC. In addition to symptoms including sore throat, aches and fever, the flu can lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia.

One of the most important steps you can take to avoid serious, flu-related illnesses is to be vaccinated.

Who needs a flu vaccine?

Almost everyone. The CDC recommends that anyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated, particularly people who are at a high risk for flu complications. This includes people 65 years and older, young children and people with chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease. Individuals who care for or live with these high-risk populations also should get vaccinated.

COVID-19 and the Flu – What’s the difference?

According to the CDC, flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Both can spread from person-to-person, and the CDC recommends social distancing, frequent hand-washing and the use of cloth face masks to mitigate infection. Because some of the symptoms of Flu and COVID-19 are similar, testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. You can learn more about other key differences and the most recent available information on COVID-19 and the flu here.

You can get the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine, even in the same visit.

Flu Shot or Nasal Spray Vaccine?

CDC recommends that providers use any licensed, appropriate influenza vaccine. There are several flu vaccine options, including the live attenuated influenza vaccine, also known as the nasal spray. Different flu vaccines are approved for use in different groups of people. Factors that can determine a person’s suitability for vaccination, or vaccination with a particular vaccine, include a person’s age, health (current and past) and any relevant allergies, including an egg allergy.

When Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?

Flu is most common in the fall and winter. For most people, September – October is a good time to get the vaccine, though children and people in their third trimester of pregnancy may want to get it earlier.

Join United Against the Flu as we send a loud message across social platforms to protect yourself and your family by getting a flu vaccination.

Pediatrician Answers Questions on COVID-19 and Pregnancy

Lisa Costello, M.D., a West Virginia pediatric hospitalist and expectant mother, answers questions on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine and shares her personal perspective.