It’s flu time — officially called “respiratory virus season” — so it’s important to make sure you have the latest information on what’s available and what you need. In addition to flu protection, of course, COVID-19 is still in play, making it all the more urgent that you know your options and make sure you get the best protection.
As with all health issues, it’s important to you check with your doctor. But we found this article from ABC News to be a very useful overview.
The article points out that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “currently recommends that everyone 6 months and older stay up-to-date and get a flu vaccine and a COVID vaccine, and that it’s safe to get both at the same time.
“For COVID-19, there is an updated vaccine that’s formulated to target variants that are currently circulating that are related to XBB, an offshoot of the Omicron variant.”
For the flu, those older than 65 should get either the high-dose flu shot, the adjuvanated flu shot, or the recombinant flu shot. The article gives a handy chart explaining each one, and who they are best suited for.
Important: “Health officials typically suggest getting the flu shot by Halloween but stress that it’s never too late, because the flu season can last into the spring months.”
There’s no reason not to be protected, so we urge you to check out the full article, talk to your doctor and then get that jab!
(Photo credit: Jacoblund at iStock by Getty)
