Two vaccines to protect your family this fall

With new variants of the coronavirus and influenza circulating this fall, being protected is more important than ever. Every fall, health care providers urge people to get their influenza vaccine. But only about 40 percent of Iowans actually take this advice. And in Iowa, only 66.7% of the eligible population has received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.

COVID-19 Vaccine

Many hospitals are operating on limited capacity. In addition to an increased number of COVID-19 cases and spread of the COVID-19 variants, hospitals are dealing with traumas, experiencing multiple types of illness and strains of illness typically only seen in winter. This demand is coupled with a reduced number of staff to care for patients.

These challenges can strain available resources and contribute to delays in care or other complications for patients.

Healthy behaviors, healthy community

One year ago, many people embraced the importance of hand hygiene, surface cleanliness and respiratory etiquette. These behaviors helped lead to a much less intense influenza season than usual. The CDC reported a record number of flu vaccines were distributed in the U.S. last year—193.8 million doses. Last year had the lowest recorded influenza-associated hospitalizations since data collection began in 2005.

What’s the difference?

Confusion about influenza, often referred to as "the flu," still circulates. Some people think influenza is just a bad cold. Others think it is a stomach “bug”. There are big differences, though. Using the term "the flu" interchangeably for the respiratory virus and stomach illness leads to more confusion.

Like COVID-19, influenza is a respiratory virus. And just like COVID-19, people can get sick and die from influenza.

We have the best tools available

The best way to protect yourself and your family and loved ones against influenza and COVID-19 is to get vaccinated for both. Everyone 6 months and older, with few exceptions, should get an annual flu vaccine and everyone 12 years and older is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

It is important to receive your influenza vaccine early. Influenza cases are expected to start increasing in October, and it takes about two weeks for the antibodies to build up and offer protection. The CDC says that for those elligible for both the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine, that they can be administered at the same time without regard to timing. Contact your health care provider if you have questions.

Don't wait to get your influenza vaccine. Vaccines are already available in many areas; contact your local MercyOne provider today. 

Family medicine clinic