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Editorial
COVID, flu claim thousands of U.S. lives needlessly
Thursday, October 3, 2024
As we move into the cooler months, it’s time to prepare for the inevitable arrival of flu and COVID-19. In Southwest Nebraska, the public health department is already seeing an uptick in COVID cases, echoing a national trend. This makes it even more important to take preventive steps now—by getting vaccinated.
Every year, thousands of people die from the flu, a preventable illness. In fact, more than a thousand people in the U.S. lose their lives annually simply because they were not vaccinated against influenza. COVID-19, which has had an even more devastating impact, has claimed more than a million lives in this country. Yet, by best estimates, as many as 250,000 of those lives could have been saved had people been vaccinated.
These staggering numbers underscore the importance of staying up to date with both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines. As viruses like influenza and COVID evolve rapidly, annual updates to vaccines are crucial for protection against the latest strains. Even if you do catch the flu or COVID after being vaccinated, the chances of severe illness, hospitalization, or death are dramatically reduced.
The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) is encouraging all residents aged 6 months and older to get their flu and COVID shots this year. Flu vaccines are available at local clinics, and updated COVID vaccines can be found at pharmacies and SWNPHD offices in McCook and Ogallala. If you’ve recently had a COVID vaccine, wait two months before getting the latest update.
Remember, it’s safe to get both your flu and COVID shots at the same appointment. The two vaccines are administered separately, so there’s no need to worry about them being combined.
Vaccinations are about more than just personal health—they are a civic responsibility. When you get vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself but also those around you, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and people with compromised immune systems.
Let’s prevent unnecessary suffering this winter. Get vaccinated, stay informed, and protect our communities. For more information, contact SWNPHD or visit their website for resources on how to protect your health and the health of those you care about.