Flu Vaccination still a priority during COVID-19 pandemic
As COVID-19 remains a top priority for our community, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, like the flu, this fall and winter is more important than ever. That’s why Heartland Regional Medical Center recommends getting vaccinated in October.
Most people who get sick with the flu will have a mild illness, will not need medical care or antiviral drugs and typically recover in less than two weeks. However, some people are more likely to get flu complications that can result in hospitalizations and sometimes death. This includes adults over 65, pregnant women, young children and individuals with co-occurring factors like asthma, diabetes or heart disease.
“We anticipate seeing both flu and COVID at our hospital throughout flu season,” said Dr. Eric Graham, family medicine specialist and Chief of Medicine at Heartland Regional Medical Center. “Still, we are hopeful we will see lower community prevalence as Southern Illinoisans remain on high alert during the global pandemic.”
While the flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses. Because some of the flu and COVID-19 symptoms are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference based on the symptoms alone.
It is critical that if you develop any of the following symptoms, you call your doctor. Testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Vomiting and diarrhea
The best way to prevent catching and spreading the flu is to get vaccinated as early in the season as possible because it can take up to two weeks for antibodies to develop. In addition, washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and practicing good health habits (disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, getting plenty of sleep, exercising, drinking plenty of fluids, eating healthy and managing your stress) can all reduce your chances of catching the virus.
To schedule a flu vaccination at one of Heartland Regional’s Family Medicine clinics, visit
HeartlandAnytime.com to make an appointment.
Heartland Regional Medical Group is following all CDC-recommended infection prevention protocols throughout the hospital and associated clinics. We’re taking these safety measures:
- COVID-19 screenings for all employees, visitors and patients
- Social distancing is in effect in all waiting areas
- Designated care areas for non-COVID-19 patients
- Enhanced disinfecting procedures