As we move into fall and closer to winter, there is an increased risk of seasonal illnesses like influenza and COVID-19. At CLEAR Immediate Care in Chicago, IL, we emphasize the importance of renewing your seasonal vaccines to stay protected. Vaccination is your best defense against these viruses, especially as temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself from influenza or the latest strain of COVID-19, now is the perfect time to ensure you’re up-to-date on your vaccines.
The Importance of the Influenza Vaccine
Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that peaks in the fall and winter months. It can cause mild to severe illness and, in some cases, lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and even death, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the flu causes between 12,000 to 52,000 deaths annually in the United States, depending on the severity of the flu season. Additionally, flu season hospitalizations range from 140,000 to 710,000 each year.
Getting your annual flu vaccine is crucial for reducing your risk of infection and helping prevent the spread of the virus in the community. The vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most prevalent strains of the flu, which is why it’s essential to receive it annually.
Key reasons to get the flu vaccine this fall:
- Protect vulnerable populations: By getting vaccinated, you reduce the risk of passing the virus to those more vulnerable, such as the elderly, children, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Prevent severe illness: While the flu vaccine may not completely prevent illness, it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms if you should contract the virus.
- Reduce strain on healthcare: Annual flu vaccinations help reduce hospital visits, ensuring that healthcare systems are not overwhelmed during peak flu season.
COVID-19 Vaccination: Staying Protected Against New Variants
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has stabilized, the virus continues to circulate, particularly during the colder months. As new variants of COVID-19 emerge, it’s vital to stay up-to-date with the latest vaccines, especially since immunity can wane over time.
The CDC recommends that everyone ages six months and older stay current on their COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster shots for those who are eligible. Vaccines have proven to be highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. According to CDC data, as of 2023, COVID-19 vaccines have prevented approximately 18.5 million hospitalizations and 3.2 million deaths in the U.S.
The Importance of Combining Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines
With both flu and COVID-19 likely to circulate this fall, renewing your vaccinations for both is crucial. The good news is that you can receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, making it convenient to protect yourself from both viruses. The combination of flu and COVID-19 vaccines can greatly reduce your risk of contracting either virus or developing severe symptoms if infected.
Key benefits of staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines:
- Protection against severe illness: Even if you contract COVID-19, being vaccinated significantly reduces the likelihood of severe symptoms, hospitalization, or death.
- Updated protection: Newer vaccines and boosters target the most recent strains, keeping your immune system prepared for new variants.
Schedule Your Seasonal Vaccines at CLEAR Immediate Care
At CLEAR Immediate Care, we are committed to keeping you healthy and protected this fall. Our clinic offers both the flu vaccine and the latest COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring that you and your family are prepared for the upcoming season. Don’t wait until the peak of flu and COVID-19 season—schedule your vaccination appointment today to renew your protection and stay healthy throughout the fall and winter months.
Make your health a priority this season. Contact CLEAR Immediate Care in Chicago, IL, today to book your vaccination and stay ahead of seasonal illnesses.