The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services urges all Missourians to get the flu vaccine before October.
Since the flu typically infects over 100,000 people a year, health officials are concerned it could strain an already stressed medical system in Missouri.
“To ensure our state has the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients, we need to do whatever we can to prevent strain on our health care system and keep Missourians healthy,” said Randall Williams, Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services. “Flu vaccines are therefore important to the COVID-19 fight. Preventing flu means fewer unnecessary medical visits and hospitalizations. Preventing flu also reduces disruptions to our daily lives – at home, at work, at school.”
The flu can cause many similar symptoms to COVID-19, including a runny nose, fever, muscle and body aches, and more. Officials are also concerned because it is unknown how a person who has both would be affected.
Pictured: Director Randall Williams receiving a flu shot.
