We see it every year, leaves fall from branches, the weather turns cold, noses get stuffy, and the flu is on the rise. The flu can take you out of work for a few days, or may result in hospitalization, or something more serious. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes[1].
Everyone aged 6 months or older is eligible for a flu vaccine and receiving it annually is the best way to help protect against flu. Flu vaccines cause antibodies to form in the body about two weeks after vaccination1 and have many benefits including reduced risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and flu-related death in children1. Although some people who get a flu vaccine may still get sick, several studies have shown that vaccination reduces the severity of illness.
Every flu season is different, but this year not only are we fighting off the flu, but also COVID-19. That’s why it’s important to stay up to date with all your vaccinations. If you and your loved ones aren’t vaccinated against COVID-19, remember that everyone ages 5 and older is eligible for the Pfizer vaccine. In addition, adults aged 18 and older can get the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
To ensure you’re protecting yourself as best you can, AFSPA encourages you to also get the COVID-19 booster shot once you’ve received an original vaccination. The CDC recommends a COVID-19 booster if you are 18 or older and:
- Received the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago.
- Received both shots of either the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at least six months ago.
Visit this website to stay up to date on COVID-19 booster shots.
How AFSPA Can Help
FSBP offers wellness incentives for getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccine. FSBP members, aged 18 years and older, who received the COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine, are eligible to earn a $25 wellness incentive. For more information click here.
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm
