As the entire world anxiously awaits the arrival of a safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19, flu season is now upon us as well, and that means it is time to start thinking about the annual flu shot. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided guidance for getting a flu shot during the COVID-19 crisis, and it has published a number of other resources related to the impacts of COVID-19 on the 2020-2021 flu season as well. Here are some of the highlights:
1. The Annual Flu Shot Will Be “More Important Than Ever”
The CDC is strongly recommending that U.S. citizens and residents get their flu shots for the 2020-2021 flu season. According to the CDC:
“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, like flu, this fall and winter is more important than ever…. CDC recommends getting a flu vaccination in September or October but getting vaccinated anytime during the flu season can help protect you.”
While flu activity in the United States was low as of early September, the CDC is warning of the risk of elevated flu-like illnesses related to COVID-19, and it is encouraging people to stay home “as much as possible” in order to avoid close contact with others who may have the flu and/or COVID-19.
2. There Will Be Confusion about Whether an Illness is the Flu or COVID-19
Due to similarities between the symptoms of the flu and COVID-19, it is anticipated that there will be a substantial amount of confusion as to whether individuals who get sick have the flu or the novel coronavirus. While those who are sick should stay home regardless of which type of virus they have, the risks associated with COVID-19 mean that individuals who are sick with the flu may face quarantine requirements and other restrictions as well – particularly when it comes to going to work and sending children to school.
As listed by the CDC, symptoms that are common among the flu and COVID-19 include:
- Body aches
- Chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
Currently, the primary distinguishing factor between the symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 is loss of taste and/or smell. These symptoms are associated with COVID-19, but they generally are not associated with the flu.
3. People Will Need to Be Careful When Getting Their Flu Shots
While the CDC is strongly recommending the flu shot, it is also encouraging people to be very careful when they go for their immunizations. “To protect your health when getting a flu vaccine, follow CDC’s recommendations for running essential errands and doctor visits.” Individuals who have concerns should call ahead to schedule an appointment and confirm that adequate safety precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Contact Vaccine Injury Lawyer Leah V. Durant
If you, your child or any other member of your family is diagnosed with a flu shot injury or illness during the 2020-2021 flu season, you may be able to obtain financial relief under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). To learn more in a free and confidential consultation with vaccine injury lawyer Leah V. Durant, please call 202-800-1711 or contact us online. We are conducting consultations remotely nationwide during the COVID-19 crisis.
Leah Durant Bio
Experienced litigation attorney Leah Durant focuses on representing clients in complex vaccine litigation matters. Leah Durant is the owner and principal attorney of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC, a litigation firm based in Washington, DC. Leah Durant and her staff represent clients and their families who suffer from vaccine-related injuries, adverse vaccine reactions and vaccine-related deaths. The Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC is dedicated to assisting individuals in recovering the highest level of compensation as quickly and efficiently as possible. To learn more, contact vaccine attorney Leah Durant today.