Yeah, children are back in school or some form of school. However, they may not be at as much risk of certain infections. This is because of decrease in contact, since some students are participating in virtual learning. However, there is still a need for surveillance. Although, we are still in a deadly pandemic, let's not forget about the devastating things that can bring about just as much agony and death. That is influenza or the flu. Yes, we are back in flu season, and now is the time to start getting your flu regimen together. Whether the flu vaccine (their are different types based on your age and preference) and/or boosting your immune system, now is the time to consider doing just that.
I would not wait until later in the season to get a flu shot, if you are getting one. I would get one as soon as possible and they are available now ask your pharmacy or medical provider. According to the CDC, it "estimates that influenza was associated with more than 35.5 million illnesses, more than 16.5 million medical visits, 490,600 hospitalizations, and 34,200 deaths during the 2018–2019 influenza season." https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/2018-2019.html#:~:text=CDC%20estimates%20that%20influenza%20was,the%202018%E2%80%932019%20influenza%20season.
This is also, more devastating due to a higher risk for those over the age of 65 and those with co-morbidities. This is the same population that are at higher risk for Covid-19. So, I encourage our very young and older population especially, to get a flu shot. This is not the time to contemplate if you should or shouldn't. Also, anyone that will be around these populations. Don't get it if you think your are ill, because then you will not know when or where the symptoms are coming from and you don't want to ignore a possible covid-19 infection.
It is more important now than ever. Let's get the flu vaccine that has empirically helped and not hurt the population. Also, we don't want to have to go to the hospital if we can avoid it. Let us know if we can help, www.hhctelehealth.com or for more immediate assistance call 911 for life threatening or altering conditions.