As flu season approaches, it’s surprising to learn that only half of adults plan to receive a flu vaccine this year. The World Health Organization has flagged the “global influenza pandemic” as one of the top ten threats to global health in 2019, yet many individuals remain hesitant about getting vaccinated. Health officials stress the importance of annual vaccinations for everyone over six months old, but a recent study from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) revealed that only 60% of adults view the flu shot favorably. Alarmingly, just 50% plan to get vaccinated, and the CDC estimates that only 40% will actually go through with it.
The reasons behind this reluctance are perplexing, and they may include issues like limited access to healthcare. Around 8.5% of Americans lack health insurance, and many pharmacies offering “free flu shots” don’t accept all insurance types. For some, scheduling an appointment for a simple flu shot can feel like an unnecessary hassle.
When ABC News shared this information on social media, numerous commenters provided anecdotal justifications for their aversion to flu shots. Some claimed they became ill after vaccination, while others insisted they had never contracted the flu, attributing their good fortune to not getting vaccinated. A few even suggested unverified holistic remedies as alternatives.
The Importance of Vaccination
Dr. Alan Thompson, the medical director at NFID, emphasizes the critical need for annual flu shots, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, young children, seniors, and individuals with chronic health conditions. He noted that even if a vaccinated person contracts the flu, their illness is likely to be less severe and shorter in duration, reducing the risk of serious complications like pneumonia or hospitalization.
It’s hard to understand why anyone would forgo the flu vaccine when the CDC reported that 80,000 Americans died from the flu during the 2017-2018 season. Dr. Lisa Green, the incoming president of NFID, pointed out the tragic statistic of 135 children who lost their lives to the flu last season, highlighting that only 63% of kids received a flu shot.
Dr. Thompson warns that vaccine-preventable diseases will continue to pose a threat in the United States unless we prioritize flu vaccinations. To tackle misconceptions, the CDC has created a helpful document addressing common myths about the flu shot (spoiler alert: the flu shot cannot give you the flu!). So, roll up your sleeve and get vaccinated—preferably before the end of October.
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Conclusion
In summary, despite the known risks associated with the flu, many adults remain hesitant to get vaccinated. The combination of accessibility issues, personal anecdotes, and unfounded beliefs contribute to this trend. Nevertheless, health experts continue to advocate for flu shots as a crucial preventive measure.
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