CDC Officials Say Americans Receiving The Flu Vaccine This Year Is More Important Than Ever

"Getting a flu vaccine will be more important than ever as flu and COVID-19 could be circulating together as we move into the fall and winter months."

(Washington, D.C.) — The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials are stressing the importance for Americans to get the flu vaccine this year. 

While the flu vaccine will not protect from the COVID-19 virus, there are benefits of protecting yourself from all possible infectious viruses. 

From October 1, 2019 through April 4, 2020, an estimated 56 million flu cases, 740,000 hospitalizations and up to 62,000 deaths were reported. It will crucial that Americans prepare themselves until there is a COVID-19 vaccine. 

"Getting a flu vaccine will be more important than ever as flu and COVID-19-19 could be circulating together as we move into the fall and winter months," says CDC Deputy Director for Infectious Diseases Jay Butler.

With health officials wary of a second wave of COVID-19 hitting during flu season, there is a possibility of strain on hospital resources. A boost in Americans receiving their flu shot could ease the strain on hospitals across the country.

Less than half of Americans get the flu vaccine each year; however, there are hopes that the COVID-19 pandemic will push for more people taking advantage of the vaccine this year.

The CDC recommends getting the flu vaccine as early as September and October. 

Find more information about the flu vaccine at www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2020-2021.htm.