A surge in influenza cases is affecting public health, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating that about 4.6 million people in the United States have been sickened by the virus this season. This outbreak has resulted in 49,000 hospitalizations and approximately 1,900 deaths. Experts caution that these numbers may underrepresent the actual impact, as many cases go unreported. School closures and stricter hospital visitor policies have been implemented in response to the flu’s rapid spread.
As of December 19, the CDC reported that 42.3% of children and 42.2% of adults aged 18 and older have received the flu vaccine this season. Notably, the vaccination rate rises to 63.2% among adults aged 65 and older. With these figures in mind, the question arises: should individuals consider getting a second flu shot?
Understanding the Flu: Symptoms and Differences
Influenza and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they stem from different viruses. According to the CDC, influenza is caused solely by influenza viruses, while the common cold can arise from various viruses, including rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. Symptoms for both can be similar, but influenza is often more severe and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Common symptoms of the flu include:
– Fever or chills: Typically a sudden high temperature accompanied by chills.
– Cough: Usually dry.
– Sore throat.
– Runny or stuffy nose.
– Headache.
– Extreme fatigue and weakness.
– Severe muscle or body aches.
Flu Vaccination: One Shot or Two?
The CDC recommends that adults receive only one flu vaccination per season. Despite the significant proportion of the population that remains unvaccinated, the health agency states that a second shot is not necessary. “In adults, studies have not shown a benefit from getting more than one dose of vaccine during the same flu season, even among elderly persons with weakened immune systems,” the CDC reported.
This guidance also applies to children receiving the vaccine for the first time, who may require a different vaccination schedule, but typically, only one dose is recommended each season for everyone else.
The flu primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and subsequently touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. Individuals are usually contagious approximately one day before symptoms arise, allowing the virus to spread before the infected person is aware of their illness.
Given the current flu season’s severity, public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and preventive measures to curb the outbreak’s impact. As the situation evolves, individuals are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their health.
