While the Covid-19 epidemic continues to spread, another outbreak – the flu — is on its way. The flu season of 2020 was one of the mildest on record. From September 27, 2020, to April 24, 2021, the CDC recorded 2,038 confirmed flu cases. During a normal flu season, the United States might experience more than 9 million cases every year.
Dr. Darria Long Gillespie, an emergency department physician, said, “Last year, we had practically no flu — and it’s not clear if that’s because everyone was masked and following protocols — or because of extraordinary immunizations last year.” “I believe we were also more germ-conscious. Instead of attempting to push through a cold or flu at work or school, we had to remain home if we had any symptoms, which meant fewer germs were circulating.”
What Are Doctors Are Saying?
Many people are hoping it will be similar to last year, but they warn that if adequate measures are not taken, flu season may be severe. According to Dr. Noah Greenspan, a cardiopulmonary physical therapist who specializes in cardiovascular, respiratory, complicated medical, and post-covid therapy, the flu is contracted according on the frequency, intensity, and duration of exposure. To put it another way, the more times you come into contact with the flu virus, the more likely you are to get it.
Dr. Greenspan stated, “The good news is that we have numerous instruments at our disposal that can assist us decrease the danger.” “These include the same measures we use to keep Covid at bay, such as vaccines like the flu shot, masks, social distance, and frequent hand washing,” says the researcher. Many of us are already doing a lot of those things. I’m confident that we’ll have a mild flu season this year.”
Flu Shots Set For Record Lows This Year
According to doctors, it might go either way. According to the CDC, 189.4 million flu vaccinations were delivered in the 2020-2021 flu season, up from 174 million in the previous season.
Health experts are hoping that the trend will continue, but they can’t be certain, given the small rise in immunization rates from previous year. Each year, the flu vaccine is sometimes available as early as the end of August, although it is most commonly accessible at pharmacies and doctors’ offices around mid-September or early October. Regardless, physicians recommend that everyone receive a flu shot as soon as possible.
“You may have the flu and Covid at the same time,” stated Dr. Gillespie. “Which puts a double strain on the body and may cause the immune system to shut down. It’s also crucial because if you get the flu, you’ll be worried it’s Covid, so be prepared to quarantine.”
According to Dr. Amy Beckley, the flu vaccination is also 20 to 30 percent effective in preventing Covid-19.
Can Masks Help?
Absolutely. Wearing a mask in public or around someone who is sick or may be sick is the greatest method to avoid getting the flu, according to doctors.
