SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Flu activity in California has reached a high level as national Flu Vaccine Week comes to an end, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC is reporting an 8% influenza positivity rate in California.
“This season has been robust as in past years we are seeing an increase in the amount of patients coming in for flu vaccines this year," said Lauren Landeta who works with CVS.
According to CVS, 75% of people are planning to get a flu shot this year, 40% of which will get it somewhere other than the doctor’s office.
This year, there is something new to consider when making an appointment for older adults.
“We have a brand new vaccine come out for RSV. This is for patients 60 years and older and whenever a new vaccine comes out, we want to make sure we are invested in patients,” said Landeta.
RSV was a big concern for children during the pandemic but adults are the carriers. Pharmacists are emphasizing getting the RSV, flu and COVID vaccine ahead of the holiday season when people are gathering.
“A big myth is that it’s too late in the season to get your flu vaccine. It is not too late, in fact, flu season does go through March and up to May sometimes so it is not too late to get your flu vaccine especially with family gatherings coming up. It is important to protect yourself, family and friends,” said Landeta.
If you aren’t sure which vaccines you should get or when you should get them, chat with your doctor or schedule a consult with your local pharmacist.
