Don’t forget to get your flu shot this fall!
With all the talk nowadays about COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots, it’s easy to forget the need for a flu shot. However, flu shots are more important than ever, especially in those age 65 and over. Here’s why.
In those age 65 and older, the risk for serious flu complications. That’s because those age 65 and over immune system changes that increase their risk for viruses.
About 70% to 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have happened in those age 65 or over, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The age 65+ crowd also is more likely to be hospitalized due to the flu.
The flu vaccine, which is updated every year to protect against the most common viruses, both reduces the incidence of flu and lowers the risk for flu-related complications. The CDC advises that almost everyone age 6 months or older gets a seasonal flu shot. The best time to get a flu shot for those ages 65 and over is in September or October. Flu season generally circulates through fall, winter and sometimes early spring.
This past winter, flu season was much milder than it usually is. Researchers speculate that it may have to do with the social distancing measures in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as staying home, washing hands more frequently, and wearing masks when going out. However, researchers are not entirely sure what the implications will be for this year’s flu season. That’s because the flu is notoriously fickle, according to one article published in the medical journal JAMA.
For that reason as well as others, it’s best to get a shot and stay prepared.
Flu Versus COVID-19: How to Know the Difference
As we enter into flu season and COVID-19 also continues to affect us, you’ll want to keep an eye on associated symptoms. Both the flu and COVID-19 can have similar symptoms, including:
- A fever
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
The best way to rule out COVID-19 is to get tested and to check with a doctor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also has a web page that explains in depth some of the differences between the flu and COVID-19.
Call Secure Aging to Find Out How We Can Help Seniors With Care Management
At Secure Aging in Bradenton, we transform the weight of the world into a sigh of relief for our senior clients and their concerned family members. The mission of Secure Aging is to protect and preserve our client’s independence and dignity through careful and thoughtful financial and care management. As our clients age, it is their desire to remain independent and age with dignity. Our services protect our clients from talented con artists looking to exploit and deplete the financial resources of our vulnerable seniors. Secure Aging helps families in Manatee County and Sarasota County and in and around the communities of Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Ellenton, Holmes Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Myakka City, Palmetto, Parrish, and Sarasota. Call us at 941-761-9338, or visit us online at www.secureaging.com.
