October 11, 2021 – The beginning of the traditional flu season is upon us, and experts are urging Americans to get their flu shots to prevent further potential strain on hospitals in the coming months.
“None of us can predict whether it will be mild, moderate or severe flu season, but we are certain that there will be flu activity. We certainly don’t want a twindemic, both COVID and influenza,” William Schaffer, medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, told The Washington Post.
A survey conducted by the National Foundation of Infectious Diseases found that 44% of US adults are “unsure or do not plan to get vaccinated against flu, including 1 in 4 of those at higher risk of flu complications.” With some evidence pointing to a potentially severe flu season, health authorities are concerned about the potential ramifications of people not getting the flu vaccine.
There are even more opportunities for the flu virus to spread this year in reopened schools and workplaces, especially if there are no active mask mandates. Additionally, hospitals are strained more than ever before with workforce shortages and supply disruptions.
In a briefing on flu vaccination efforts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky said, “This low flu activity was likely due to the widespread implementation of COVID-19 preventive measures like masks, physical distancing and staying home. Because of so little disease last year, population immunity is likely lower, putting us all at risk of increased disease this year.”