Getting Vaccinated During COVID-19

By Victoria Choi

Troy High School

Occurring in the fall and winter, flu season is around the corner and seemingly coinciding with the second wave of the pandemic. With influenza and COVID-19 presenting similar symptoms as they both target the lungs, differentiating the two diseases is difficult without the use of testing equipment. Additionally, scientists have reported that it is possible to be infected with both at the same time and have expressed concerns about the likelihood of these two illnesses leading to simultaneous pandemics. Therefore, although the flu may be overshadowed by the more pressing coronavirus during this time, getting vaccinated is a very important process, as it is the most beneficial method of ensuring safety.

As opposed to the limited treatment options with COVID-19, there exists an effective vaccine for influenza that can reduce the risk of flu illnesses by 40-60%. Although it is not a form of absolute prevention, the flu vaccine is a safe way of providing protection. Not only does getting a flu shot protect oneself, it also protects family members who may be vulnerable to respiratory diseases. Jacob Kim, a junior from Rowland High School who consistently gets flu shots, agrees that it is important to not only focus on the present situation but also prepare for what is up ahead. He remarks that this is especially crucial because the tools to fight the flu are available and the illness may negatively affect the severity of the pandemic in the future.

Flu shots are also safe to get and easily accessible, with most hospitals or pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens allowing for walk-ins. Freshman Justin Choi recounts his recent experience of receiving a flu shot at Kaiser Permanente, stating that he and his family were able to walk in and get vaccinated in no longer than half an hour. With social distancing and masks enforced, he agrees that he had a positive experience and felt safe throughout his visit.

It is important now more than ever to get vaccinated for the flu. By reducing the risk of catching the flu, resources allocated to those fighting COVID-19 are conserved, including hospital bed occupancy, testing equipment, and protective equipment such as masks and gloves. The extra burden of flu patients would lead to lower capacities and an inability to treat patients with the same efficiency in numerous hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, due to the similarities in symptoms, many may mistake the flu for COVID-19 and get tested, leading to shortages in tests and a decreased efficiency in providing information for those who are sick.