Flu Shots: More Important This Year Than Ever Before

Flu season is upon us, though it looks a bit different this year as COVID-19 is still actively spreading in El Dorado County. This year, getting a flu shot will be more important than ever.

Because the symptoms for both COVID-19 and the flu are similar, the first onset of fever and aches is naturally concerning. Thankfully, there is a vaccine for the flu and it is now widely available from any number of places—at your local drug store or in your doctor’s office, for example.

Flu vaccines will not prevent COVID-19, but they will prevent certain strains of the flu, as well as reduce the burden of flu illnesses and hospitalizations on the health care system and conserve medical resources for the care of people with COVID-19. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the most important step in protecting against flu viruses.

If you believe you’ve been exposed to either of these viruses, self-quarantine to the best of your ability. Do not go to work or social gatherings, get your groceries or other food delivered and do not invite guests to your home. You can get tested for the flu at your doctor’s office. For a COVID-19 test, visit https://www.edcgov.us/Government/hhsa/Pages/EDCCOVID-19-Get-A-Test.aspx to find a testing location near you or you can get one at the Marshall lab locations in Placerville and Cameron Park with a doctor’s order.

If you start to feel symptoms, get plenty of rest and fluids. If at any point you have trouble breathing or walking, call 911 or get a ride to the Emergency Room. It’s critical that you continue to quarantine at home until the virus has completely cleared your system. Be sure to contact your workplace’s Occupational Health Department before going back to work.