Louisiana Healthcare Connections is reminding Louisiana residents to get the influenza (flu) vaccine through its yearly Fluvention® program. Because the flu virus varies each year and affects each person differently, it’s important to get the flu vaccine every year to protect yourself from this serious illness. It’s also important to get the shot before the flu spreads, ideally before the end of October.
Louisiana’s Healthcare Connections Fluvention® program offers free resources to help people understand the importance of the flu shot, the risks of flu season and other preventive measures. The initiative strives to increase flu vaccination rates and was recognized with the Health Information Award for its efforts to educate and empower families, communities and organizations to take care of themselves each flu season.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 31 million Americans caught the flu virus last year. The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of illness, hospitalization and even flu-related death. In a 2022 study, the flu vaccine was shown to reduce children’s risk of severe life-threatening influenza by 75%. Previous studies noted the flu vaccine prevented an estimated 7.5 million flu illnesses and an estimated 105,000 flu-related hospitalizations – for children and adults alike.
“Vaccinations and good hygiene, like washing hands and coughing into your sleeve, are key to preventing the flu and staying healthy,” noted Louisiana Healthcare Connections Chief Medical Officer, Stewart Gordon, MD. “The flu shot takes a few weeks to offer full protection, so don’t delay getting your flu shot. Additionally, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) will cause infections this fall and winter, so speak with your doctor to learn more about which vaccines are recommended for you.”