The most effective way to prevent serious complications from influenza is through vaccination. Although there is a moderately effective vaccine - given the continuous variation of circulating viruses that means the vaccine needs to be updated annually - it is estimated that only half of the population at risk receives the flu vaccine each year in the countries of the region that report data.
Here are some common myths about the flu vaccine, in general and related to COVID-19.
Studies have found that it is possible to be infected and diagnosed with influenza and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, at the same time. It’s important to know that receiving a diagnosis for just one virus doesn’t rule out the possibility of having the other.
We are still learning about the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but there is data that shows people who are infected with both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus at the same time can suffer more severe outcomes in terms of severity of symptoms and risk of hospitalization and death.
While it is impossible to know with certainty, the control measures put in place, such as physical distancing, mask usage, and hand hygiene, seemed to have reduced the spread of influenza during the Southern Hemisphere’s flu season. It is likely that influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 will both be spreading this fall and winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but the experience from the Southern Hemisphere shows that the continuation of physical distancing measures could help to prevent the spread of influenza in addition to preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Even so, it’s important to get vaccinated against influenza this year.
Both influenza and COVID-19 are respiratory diseases, meaning that the symptoms can appear similar. They both can cause mild or even asymptomatic disease, but also can cause severe disease and death. Additionally, there are other circulating viruses, like those that cause the common cold, that can result in similar symptoms. If someone starts experiencing symptoms that could be influenza or COVID-19, a test will need to be performed in order to get an official diagnosis.
There is currently no data supporting increased risk of getting COVID-19 for those that received an influenza vaccine. While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, studies have also shown that COVID-19 patients who have recently received an influenza vaccine may have a lower risk of dying than patients who did not receive an influenza vaccine.
Anyone six months of age or older can be vaccinated against the influenza. The priority groups for influenza vaccination are health workers, older adults, pregnant women, individuals with underlying health conditions, and children. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and a possible increase in demand for the influenza vaccine, the highest priority risk groups for vaccination are health workers and older adults.
Countries have been using innovative approaches to get people vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic. These strategies include designated vaccination times for high risk groups, vaccination by appointment in health facilities, outdoor vaccination outside health facilities, and drive-through vaccinations.
Follow the same local health and safety guidelines that are recommended for running errands like grocery shopping when going to get the influenza vaccine.
