
This year, it’s more important than ever to get a seasonal flu shot
as early as possible.
Recent projections from Colorado public health experts indicate that the
next surge in COVID-19 is likely to coincide with the start of the 2020-21
flu season. That’s why Dr. Amie Meditz, infectious diseases specialist
at the Beacon Center for Infectious Diseases, urges: “As soon as
you are able to get the vaccination, you should do so. It should not be
delayed.”
For the upcoming flu season, flu vaccination is important to reduce the
overall impact of respiratory illnesses on the community and the local
health care system. Dr. Meditz explains: “With the ongoing presence
of COVID-19 in Boulder County, it more important than ever to seek vaccination
for other preventable diseases, particularly influenza, because it offers
the best way to minimize the number of patients seeking treatment at Foothills
Hospital, our urgent care centers and our emergency departments.
Seasonal flu vaccinations are now available at Boulder Community Health
clinics. To schedule a convenient time to receive a flu shot, contact
your BCH primary care clinic or call 303-415-4015 to schedule an appointment.
Here are three ways you and your family can avoid influenza this season:
1. Everyone should get a flu shot (excluding children less than six-months-old,
someone with a life-threatening reaction to one of the ingredients of
the vaccine or an individual with a history of Guillain–Barré
syndrome)
It takes your body about two weeks to develop a response to the vaccine,
so earlier vaccination is key.
“Remember that when you get a flu vaccine, you are also protecting
those around you who may be harmed by the flu,” says Dr. Meditz,
stressing that adults over 65-years-old, anyone with a chronic medical
condition, pregnant women, and health care workers are at particular risk
for more severe illness and complications relating to influenza.
2. Stop the spread of germs. You can do this by washing your hands with soap and water, avoiding close
contact with sick people, and covering your nose and mouth when you cough
or sneeze.
Of course, the same precautions that reduce your potential exposure to
COVID-19 also apply to other respiratory illnesses, including flu. These
include handwashing, social distancing and wearing a mask.
3. If you do come down with the flu, your primary care provider will help
you decide if you would benefit from an anti-viral medication.
If you are prescribed an anti-viral drug, make sure to take it as directed by your doctor.