In any given year, it’s important to consider getting your flu shot for a number of reasons. But it’s safe to say that this flu season isn’t like the rest.
With an ongoing pandemic on our hands and flu season right around the corner, there’s even more to consider. So let’s take a closer look at why 2020 is an especially unique yet important year to get the flu shot.
By now, we’re unfortunately very familiar with the far reaching effect and immense impact of this pandemic. The most apparent being the pressure on our healthcare system and its workers.
Now, we know what you might be thinking - how does getting a flu shot help this problem? Even though it’s not a 100% guarantee, a flu shot can help significantly reduce your chances of getting the flu or developing complications if you do get sick. Past flu seasons have shown a decrease in flu related doctor’s visits by 40%-60% thanks to the flu shot. Reducing the number of flu cases can help allocate more clinical care to those suffering with COVID-19 and free up much needed space in overcrowded hospitals. It’s a simple way to keep yourself from getting sick and prevent an overwhelming pileup at the doctor’s office.
Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, people are taking more health conscious precautions than ever before. Mandatory mask policies have taken effect, hand hygiene is a top priority and social distancing has become the norm. With any luck, all of this effort will result in even less flu cases. But much like COVID-19, the risk of getting the flu is still there.
Think of the flu shot as just another precaution you can take to not only keep yourself safe but others as well. In the long run, it could potentially prevent you from getting the flu and then spreading it to those who might be more vulnerable. And at the very least, it’s a small act of kindness to help keep your community healthy.
COVID-19 and the flu are two completely different illnesses, which means it is possible to get them both. They do, however, have one very important thing in common - there is no cure. That’s especially a concern when you take the possibility of serious and sometimes fatal complications into consideration. The only way to combat either of these illnesses is through prevention. In 2018 and 2019 alone, the flu shot prevented an estimated 4.4 million flu cases.
Prevention is especially important for those who are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu. For some, the flu could result in a hospitalization or, even worse, death. The flu shot is a quick and easy way to help avoid a stressful health scare altogether. And let’s face it - we could all use one less thing to worry about these days.
You can get your flu shot at your local pharmacy. And if you’re still on the fence, we’ve put together a few more reasons why you should consider it. Be sure to reach out to your care team on your Firefly app if you have any more questions. Not a member yet? Get started by signing up on our website, or giving us a call at (855) 869-9284.
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