double whammy
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) joins other health experts in recommending that everyone eligible get vaccinated against COVID-19 and the influenza (flu) to help prevent the spread of either virus.
The flu and COVID-19 are different respiratory viruses with similar symptoms. Based on all of the available information, health experts agree that the COVID vaccine is safe and effective, and the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clarified that it is safe to get the flu shot at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine.
Those with chronic health conditions, elderly individuals, racial or ethnic minorities, and health care and other essential workers are particularly vulnerable to these viruses. Flu season starts in the fall and can last until spring so emergency physicians suggest getting a flu shot by the end of October, in time for colder weather and before holiday travel.
“We should be taking every precaution to protect ourselves and our loved ones from either virus. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to avoid the double whammy of flu and COVID,” said Dr. Rosenberg.
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is the national medical society representing emergency medicine. Through continuing education, research, public education and advocacy, ACEP advances emergency care on behalf of its 40,000 emergency physician members, and the more than 150 million Americans they treat on an annual basis. For more information, visit www.acep.org and www.emergencyphysicians.org.