Should I get a Flu shot?

A typical answer from most doctor’s offices is Yes, everyone should get a flu shot.

For those seeking more detailed information on the vaccine’s effectiveness, here’s what we know: According to the CDC, between 5% and 20% of Americans contract the flu annually, which means statistically, one in every five individuals will get a flu infection this year. In recent years, the flu vaccine has been 10% to 60% effective in preventing serious flu-related illness. With these statistics in mind, the vaccine can reduce your risk of getting seriously infected from 20% down to 8% at best, and to 18% in the worst-case scenario.

In my opinion, the flu vaccine is particularly beneficial if you are at higher risk—for example, if you have children, interact with children regularly, work in healthcare, or have serious health issues. If you do not fit this criteria, you might be at average or lower risk, and the flu vaccine may not be as beneficial.

How Common is the Flu in Chicago?

Chicago’s flu risk is likely average compared to the national average. The City of Chicago publishes a respiratory virus surveillance report every week. So far, flu rates seem to be lower than other viruses.

What About COVID-19 Vaccination?

COVID-19 has come in waves over the past few years, typically every 5 to 6 months. The last wave in Chicago was in September/October. Currently, the COVID-19 positive activity rate is 2.5% among all patients tested for COVID-19 infection who came to hospitals with upper respiratory symptoms. This suggests we are likely at the tail end of this wave, and a new wave may start in February or March. It might be a good idea to get the next round of vaccination for COVID-19 in February or March since the vaccine’s effects last only 3 to 4 months.

Should Everyone Get a COVID-19 Vaccination?

Since most COVID-19 infections have been mild over the past few years and many of us have already experienced several rounds of COVID-19 infections, vaccination is more likely to be beneficial if you are at high risk for a serious infection, are pregnant, work in healthcare, or other jobs where you interact with many people from various walks of life. For those who are at high risk, the best time to get vaccinated would be just before the next wave of infections.

How to Keep Track of Viruses Going Around in the Community?

You can review the City of Chicago’s weekly report on upper respiratory tract viruses and their positivity rates, as well as compare them to the previous year, here.

Flu shots are free for everyone!

Flu shots are available at most pharmacies like walgreens and CVS for free (either via insurance or free voucher if you have an health insurance).