MidMichigan doctor says flu shots important this year
ALPENA, Mich. — We’re heading into flu season once again.
Dr. Daniel Maxwell, chairman of medicine with MidMichigan health, says last year’s flu season was mild because measures to slow COVID–19 are similar to those for the flu.
However, with masks coming off and people gathering again, he says we can expect the flu to spread more like it did before the pandemic.
Maxwell told WBKB that vaccinating against the flu is very important this year because it can help in the fight against COVID–19.
“As we deal with COVID, it can be very difficult to differentiate COVID from the flu. So if we can eliminate one source of infection, that’s a good thing. And if we can get you vaccinated against COVID and against the flu, that’s even better because your chances of getting a serious respiratory illness are significantly reduced.”
In other words, Dr. Maxwell said getting immunized for influenza means you’ll be less likely to mistake COVID–19 symptoms for the flu.
If you do get sick, Maxwell says to mask up so you don’t spread it to friends, co–workers, or strangers.
Stay home if you can, and wash your hands often.
