This story appeared in the Petoskey News-Review. Read more here.
The Health Department of Northwest Michigan announced Thursday it is urging everyone to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible to protect themselves and their communities from flu, especially while continuing to battle COVID-19.
The health department, which serves Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet and Otsego counties, said getting a flu vaccine is critical this season because flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will likely be spreading simultaneously.
Importantly, residents can get their COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as their flu vaccine.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those who are at higher risk for contracting flu are also at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19. Vaccinations for both COVID-19 and the flu are safe, effective strategies to protect people and their communities from illness, the CDC said.
“I encourage everyone to get their flu shot as soon as possible,” said Dr. Josh Meyerson, medical director for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. “Everyone six months and older is recommended to receive the flu vaccination with few exceptions. A good guide to what parents need to know about the flu is available through healthychildren.org.”
“And you can safely get the COVID-19 vaccination, or other needed immunizations, at the same time,” Meyerson added.
Flu vaccines are available now at the health department, physician offices and pharmacies around the region and state.
To find a health department clinic near you and to make an appointment for your flu shot, visit www.nwhealth.org/flu.