While influenza and other non-COVID respiratory viruses were no-shows last fall and winter - largely subdued by the public's wearing of face masks and social distancing - there are growing concerns that we may not be so lucky this winter.
In yesterday's blog Cureus: A Case Series of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Co-infection we looked at potential complications of dual infections, and the extra burden a heavy influenza season could place on already stressed healthcare delivery systems.
On Thursday of this week the CDC will hold a COCA Call on the latest ACIP recommendations on Influenza Vaccines and their coadministration with COVID vaccines. These presentations are often technical, and are of greatest interest to clinicians and healthcare providers, but also may be of interest to the general public.Logistically this represents a considerable challenge, but a successful campaign could substantially reduce the impact of COVID and Flu on the healthcare system this winter.
First, details on this upcoming webinar, then I'll have some excepts from the CDC's updated Flu Vaccination FAQ.
2021-2022 Influenza Vaccination Recommendations and Guidance on Coadministration with COVID-19 Vaccines= Free Continuing Education
Overview
During this COCA Call, presenters will provide updates on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for the 2021-2022 influenza vaccination season and guidance for coadministration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
Presenters
CAPT Lisa Grohskopf, MD, MPH
Medical Officer, Influenza ACIP Lead
Epidemiology and Prevention Branch
Influenza Division
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Andrew Kroger, MD, MPH
Medical Officer
Communication and Education Branch
Immunization Services Division
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Call Materials
None at this time
Call Details
When:
Thursday, September 9, 2021,2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET
Webinar Link:
Passcode: 220280
Dial In:
US: +1 669 254 5252
or +1 646 828 7666
or +1 551 285 1373or +1 669 216 1590
International numbers
One-tap mobile:
US: +16692545252,,1610456908#,,,,*220280# or +16468287666,,1610456908#,,,,*220280#
Webinar ID: 161 045 6908 Add to Calendar
Call Information
Registration is not required.
For a less technical overview of this year's influenza vaccination campaign you'll find most of your questions answered in the following FAQ. I've only posted some excerpts, so follow the link to read it in its entirety.
What’s New for 2021-2022(SNIP)
A few things are different for the 2021-2022 influenza (flu) season, including:
- The composition of flu vaccines has been updated.
- All flu vaccines will be quadrivalent (four component), meaning designed to protect against four different flu viruses. For more information: Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine | CDC.
- Licensure on one flu vaccine has changed. Flucelvax Quadrivalent is now approved for people 2 years and older.
- Flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time.
- More detailed guidance about the recommended timing of flu vaccination for some groups of people is forthcoming.
- Guidance concerning contraindications and precautions for the use of two flu vaccines – Flucevax Quadrivalent and Flublok Quadrivalent – were updated.
Getting a Flu Vaccine During the COVID-19 Pandemic
If COVID-19 is spreading in my community, should I still go out to get a flu vaccine?
Yes. Getting a flu vaccine is an essential part of protecting your health and your family’s health every year. Take recommended precautions to protect yourself from COVID-19 while getting your flu vaccine.
Do I need a flu vaccine if I wear a mask and practice physical distancing?
Yes. Wearing a mask and physical distancing can help protect you and others from respiratory viruses, like flu and the virus that causes COVID-19. However, the best way to reduce your risk of flu illness and its potentially serious complications is for everyone 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine each year. By getting a flu vaccine, you may also be protecting people around you who are more vulnerable to serious flu complications.
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine at the same time?
Yes. Flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time. Some specific information for providers about giving a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time is available in the 2021-2022 FAQ section for Health Care Providers at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2021-2022.htm
We've seen increasing evidence over the past few years that influenza - and other respiratory viruses - can trigger heart attacks and strokes (see JAHA: Another Study Linking ILI To Increased Risk Of Heart Attack & Stroke), and that getting the flu shot can substantially reduce those risks.
Which is why, in addition to already having gotten my COVID shots, I'll get my yearly flu shot as well.
I'll also continue to wear a face mask in public, and avoid crowds when I can, because vaccines aren't perfect, and a little extra protection couldn't hurt. After all, no one thinks it odd that we wear seatbelts in our cars, even though they all have airbags.
One form of protection is good. But two is always better.
