Why do I need a flu shot if it doesn't protect me from COVID-19?

While the flu shot won't protect you from other viral infections like COVID-19, it's important to protect yourself from influenza for several reasons:

• COVID-19 has caused an enormous strain on the health care system across the nation. During a normal winter season, the flu results in a significant number of hospitalisations. It's critical that people do what they can to help keep hospitals and other health care facilities from getting overwhelmed. For this reason, getting a flu shot is more important than ever this year for everyone 6 months and older.
• Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine does not protect you against the flu, as these viruses are different. COVID-19 vaccines have only been found to offer protection from COVID-19-related disease and its complications.  
• The flu shot not only protects you from getting the flu, but it also protects people around you. This is especially important if you have a family member who is at high risk for severe illness from both viral infections (e.g., those with chronic health conditions, seniors, young children, pregnant women).

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