Importance of Flu Vaccination During This Season's Flu Outbreak
The upcoming 2025-2026 flu season in the United States is anticipated to be active, according to health experts. Dr. David Bronstein, an infectious disease specialist at Kaiser Permanente Southern California, shares insights about the current flu season.
Dr. Bronstein emphasises that this season is unique, as the flu viruses change each year, necessitating annual flu shots. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges proactive planning due to the risk of another high-impact season.
To help combat the flu, the ABC Unified School District Health Services Department is partnering with healthcare agencies and local colleges to offer free flu shot clinics. The clinics are open to anyone age nine and up who is healthy enough to receive a flu shot.
The immunity from a flu shot lasts about a year, providing protection against severe complications and death. Getting a flu shot is advised not only for individual health but also to protect those at higher risk for complications.
Flu shots protect not only the individual but also those at higher risk for complications. Flu activity is expected to start in October, with a peak between December and February.
The CDC reported that last flu season, influenza sickened roughly 40 million Americans and killed 60,000. The flu season in Australia, which is currently winter, has been one of the most challenging in a decade. The season began early, with a surge in cases starting in April and May.
The ABC Unified School District Health Services Department is offering the flu shots at these free clinics. The vaccines are recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older.
National Influenza Vaccination Week is being recognised this week, a time to highlight the importance of getting a flu shot. So, if you haven't already, make sure to get your flu shot this season to help protect yourself and those around you.
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