PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Every year, the CDC and other public health organizations evaluate flu season and let us know how bad things are. It was once much more difficult to do. What has made it easier is the ability to share data in real time.
This year, we are learning that flu season is arriving much earlier than ever. Knowing this now is helpful, because the message — based on data — is clear: The time to get a flu shot is now.
Remember, it takes the flu shot about seven to 10 days to take effect. There is good news: The vaccines appear to be effective. This means, even if you get the flu, the symptoms will be much milder.
One other point: Due to the fact that COVID-19 is out there as well as respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, we want to do all we can to limit the number of respiratory infections and hospitalizations.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.