Following national public health warnings about a possible “twindemic,” reports are surfacing of patients testing positive for both coronavirus and influenza. “With the likelihood of both COVID-19 and seasonal flu activity this winter, contracting either disease may weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to the other diseases,” said Solano County Health Officer Dr. Bela T. Matyas. “Getting a flu vaccine this year is more important than ever and flu vaccines are the best way to protect yourself, your family, and the community from becoming seriously ill with the flu. Vaccination not only reduces the risk of catching the flu, but it also reduces the chance that you’ll be hospitalized.”

Dr. Matyas went on to say “it is important to note that flu is not COVID-19, which is caused by a different virus and that the flu is not the same as the common cold, which is also caused by different viruses.”

This is serious stuff. This should make you pause and say “hey I need to get a flu shot!” If you haven’t already received your annual flu shot, and have no contraindications for getting it, jump in your car and head to your local pharmacy or primary care physician. Remember to mask, social distance and if possible, schedule an appointment to avoid long waits and crowded areas. Stay the course, stay strong, stay well, mask up, and stay tuned!