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SPOTLIGHT: Six Reasons You Should Get the Flu Shot This Year

SPOTLIGHT: Six Reasons You Should Get the Flu Shot This Year

SEPTEMBER 2021

It’s more important than ever to get the flu shot this year.

Here are 6 reasons why:

1

COVID-19 has strained the healthcare system, making it more difficult to get necessary care when you’re sick.

This is especially true in rural areas where, even before COVID, access to healthcare can be limited.

2

If you work with swine, the flu shot is especially important. Humans can give the flu to swine and vice versa.

Watch the video, Protecting Pigs and People from the Flu (Spanish / English) to learn more.

3

Even if you do get the flu, it will likely be much less severe with the flu shot.

 

The flu shot doesn’t protect against COVID-19, but it does reduce your chance of getting the flu.

Common misconception:

“The flu shot gives you the flu.” This is UNTRUE.

LEARN MORE

4

Almost everyone should get a flu shot.

 

Here’s a list from the CDC of those who shouldn’t. It’s short.

5

Getting the flu shot protects your community, including those who can’t get the shot and are most vulnerable.

 

6

The flu vaccine protects you from four different versions of the influenza virus.

This is why you should still get the shot even if you’ve had the flu.

About the Flu Shot

  • The flu shot doesn’t ‘kick in’ immediately. It takes about two weeks for the antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu. Because of this, it is recommended to get the flu shot as early as possible.
  • Can I Get a Flu Shot While Sick? No, those with a moderate-to-severe illness with or without a fever should not get the flu shot. Getting a flu shot when you’re not well could prolong your recovery.
  • Flu vaccination of persons with COVID-19: If you are suspected or confirmed for COVID-19, your health care provider can consider delaying vaccination until you are no longer acutely ill.
  • What are the similarities and differences between Flu and COVID-19 Signs and Symptoms?
    There are some key differences between flu and COVID-19. Look at the table. Learn more here.
  • I do have a question that’s not listed here. What should I do?
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regularly updates their Influenza-Related Questions page. Please also check with your regional and state agencies for guidance and resources for your area (e.g. Minnesota: MDH)

COVID-19 Resources

The outbreak of COVID-19 is rapidly changing, creating a significant challenge for U.S. public health departments, schools, community organizations, agriculture and the overall public. UMASH has compiled a list specific to the Upper Midwest region to address COVID-19 in your state.

COVID-19 Q & A for Agricultural Communities

UMASH has compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) for farmers, families, farm workers and others living and working in agriculture.

Preventing the Flu

These English and Spanish videos address the transmission of flu from humans to pigs and pigs to humans and the necessary precautionary steps to avoid spreading the virus.

ENGLISH: Preventing the Flu
Release Date: June 4, 2019

SPANISH: Prevención De La Diseminacion Del Virus De InfluenzaRelease Date: June 18, 2019