CDC warns of severe flu season
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Health officials are urging Americans to get both the flu and COVID-19 shot.
The urgent warning from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is projecting the flu season will be severe.
Flu experts said seasonal flu cases reached an all-time low last year.
The agency said there were fewer cases because of mask-wearing and social distancing due to the pandemic.
The CDC is concerned that reduced population-level immunity to the seasonal flu could place us at risk for a severe flu season this year.
Flu symptoms can often be similar to those with COVID-19, which leads to additional flu and COVID-19 testing.
The CDC recommends the flu shot for anyone six months or older.
The agency suggests getting a flu vaccine between September and the end of October.
Director Rochelle Walensky stressed that you can roll up your sleeves and get both shots at the same time.
“It is safe and effective to get both vaccines at the same time. Getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 is the best way that everyone can stay healthy, protecting themselves, their loved ones and their communities,” Walensky said.
Health officials in central Indiana are encouraging people to mount a defense as the annual flu season begins.
Franciscan Health is hosting flu drive-through locations throughout October at various locations:
Franciscan Physician Network Columbus Primary & Specialty Care (123 2nd Street, Columbus)
- Monday, Oct. 18, 3-6 p.m.
Franciscan Physician Network Kendrick Family Medicine (1001 Hadley Road, Mooresville)
- Friday, Oct. 15, 5 to 7 p.m.
Franciscan Health Stones Crossing (1703 W. Stones Crossing Road, Greenwood)
- Saturday, Oct. 16, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Franciscan Physician Network Beech Grove Family Medicine (2030 Churchman Ave., Beech Grove)
- Saturday, Oct. 16, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Franciscan Health Carmel (12188-B, N. Meridian St.)
- Sunday, Oct. 17, 1 to 4 p.m.
Franciscan Health Indianapolis, (8111 S. Emerson Ave., Indianapolis) Current COVID testing site on the south side of the campus. Between the Women and Children’s Center (Ent. 2) and Cancer Center (Ent. 4)
- Sunday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.