The fall season is approaching fast. With all of the recent events of the California summer, it’s understandable if we are all a bit shaken and trying to sort out even the simplest of things. And though we are still grappling with the effects of COVID-19, the annual flu season in North America is also coming up fast.
The Joint Health Management Board would like to share some healthful resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help you understand the differences between the influenza (flu) and COVID-19. However, regardless of understanding the differences, the JHMB still recommends that individuals continue to take standard precautions to protect themselves and their families this upcoming flu season.
Similarities and Differences Between Flu and COVID-19
According to the CDC, “Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses….and because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.” We invite you to visit a special page provided by the CDC that walks through both the conditions, their signs and symptoms, and how they each spread: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm.
In addition, they have also provided a detailed list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) that address many questions, including:
- Can I have flu and COVID-19 at the same time?
- Is there a test that can detect both flu and COVID-19?
- Will a flu vaccine protect me against COVID-19?
- Does a flu vaccination increase your risk of getting COVID-19?
Visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2020-2021.htm to view the full list of FAQs.
Stay Tuned for Flu Shot Clinics Offered by the District This Fall
This Fall, the WellPATH Program will be coordinating flu shot clinics in accordance with the appropriate safety protocols required during this COVID-19 era. The details are still being finalized at this time, but we invite you to stay tuned for information in the coming weeks.
We appreciate your understanding as we continue to grapple with this historic pandemic and protect the health of the District and our community. We will continue to do our best to keep you informed, ensure the sustainability of the Plan, and minimize potential disruptions caused as a result of COVID-19.
