Get That Flu Shot? Health Officials Say It's Not Too Late

Get that flu shot yet?
Officials at the Yakima Health District say getting the flu vaccine this winter is crucial to help reduce the spread of influenza and symptoms. Influenza and the common cold have similar symptoms to COVID-19, the only unique symptoms that COVID-19 has are loss of taste and smell. Dr. John Lynch, an infectious-diseases physician at UW Medicine says "“What we're likely to be seeing is both things, influenza and COVID-19, at the same time."

We are now in the heart of the flu season

The CDC’s initial view of the 2022-2023 flu season notes there are increases in flu happening across most of the country, potentially signaling an early start to this year’s flu season. Since flu activity peaks between December and February, there is still time to be vaccinated.

Could you get both the flu and COVID?

Health officials say it's possible that you could be infected with influenza and COVID-19 at the same time, which is why the Yakima Health District urges you to get vaccinated, both against the flu and COVID-19. They say it's safe to get both vaccines at the same time.
Everyone six months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine. Young children, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions, and people aged 65 and older are at high risk for flu-related complications.

Who should be getting a flu shot every year?

Everyone six months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine. Young children, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions, and people aged 65 and older are at high risk for flu-related complications.