Pioneer Memorial Hospital & Health Services is reminding everyone that it is not too late to get a flu shot, as the country marked National Influenza Week from December 6th-12th. The flu shot is the most effective way to protect against the flu and is an important step individuals and families can take to help safeguard the overall health of the community and minimize the impact on health care resources, as the United States continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Since COVID-19 and flu could spread simultaneously this winter, this week serves to remind people that there is still time to get a flu vaccine to protect against flu illness and serious flu complications, such as worsening of chronic conditions or pneumonia, for example.
The effects of COVID-19 are unprecedented factors this cold and flu season. Health care providers are busy meeting pandemic-related demands, and that’s likely to get worse as we head into the winter months so it’s important that we reduce the number of cold and flu cases and flu-related hospitalizations as much as possible to preserve our health care resources. This begins with your annual flu vaccination. It’s also important to remember that the same things that can help slow the spread of COVID-19 – washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, wearing a face covering and avoiding crowds – are also important actions in reducing transmission of the flu.
Pioneer Memorial Hospital & Health Services advises everyone in our community to take the proactive step to protect their health during flu season by getting a flu shot. Flu vaccines are safe and effective, and either can help prevent you from becoming infected by this serious virus, or help lessen your symptoms if you do get sick.
Flu levels are typically at their highest between December and February, and while we are seeing an increased number of vaccinations this year, it is important to remind those who have not yet gotten vaccinated that there is still time to do so. With the flu typically spreading to many communities this time of year and people gathering for the holidays, it is especially important for families to get vaccinated to ensure they remain healthy through the holiday season and into 2021.
If you are still needing your annual flu vaccination, call (605) 326-5201 to schedule an appointment at one of our clinic locations.