How Effective Is the Flu Shot In Protecting Against COVID-19?

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the flu shot doesn’t offer any protection against the coronavirus. Even though the flu and COVID-19 are both viral respiratory illnesses, they are caused by two separate viruses.

Knowing this, you might be thinking, “Is it even necessary for me to get my flu shot this year?” The answer is absolutely, and our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail explains why below.

Why Get a Flu Shot?

This year’s flu vaccine is more important than ever even though it doesn’t eliminate your risk of getting COVID-19. The reason is because the flu shot reduces your risk of getting the flu, which, in turn, reduces your risk of needing hospitalization and other scarce healthcare resources.

Plus, even if you do get the flu after your flu shot, the vaccine will lessen the severity of your symptoms. We’ve listed some more ways the vaccine helps below.

More Flu Vaccine Benefits

  • Lowers your flu risk
  • Reduces your risk of flu-associated hospitalization
  • Helps protect women during and after pregnancy
  • Lessens the severity of illness in those that do still get sick

How Can I Stay Virus-Free This Winter?

Honestly, it might be difficult to stay completely healthy this winter, but it’s definitely doable!

The best way to stay virus-free this winter is by adhering to the CDC’s recommended health-safety precautions. We’ve listed some common and attainable ones below, but we’d suggest starting with wearing your mask over your nose and mouth in public! Wearing a mask reduces the number of respiratory droplets in the air, which lessens our chances of getting sick.

Important Health-Safety Precautions

  • Avoid large groups of people.
  • Stay home if you feel sick.
  • Stay socially distant from those that don’t live in your home.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid traveling long distances.

Haven’t gotten your flu shot yet? Schedule an appointment ASAP at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail. We are passionate about your health, so visit us if you have any general health concerns!