MDHHS urging Michiganders to get flu vaccine
ALPENA, Mich. — This week is national influenza vaccination week and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reminds Michiganders that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine this winter.
As COVID–19 and the flu are likely to spread simultaneously, Michiganders aged six months and older should get vaccinated.
Alpena’s MidMichigan Chairman of Medicine, Daniel Maxwell, said everyone is focused is on COVID, but each year there is a season of influenza which is an epidemic. Dr. Maxwell reminds us of the importance of getting your flu shot as influenza is a virus that attacks the entire body, causing pneumonia and can result in other side effects. He said approximately 25 to 75 thousand people die from the virus each year.
Dr. Maxwell said by masking, washing your hands regularly, and distancing, this will help cut down on the overload of patients at the hospitals. He adds that you can visit your primary care physician and local pharmacies for a flu vaccine.
