The coronavirus and the flu are two entirely different viruses. But a new study suggests those who get a flu vaccine face a considerably lower risk for being hospitalized if and when they get COVID-19.
And the flu vaccine also appears to significantly reduce a COVID-19 patient's risk for ending up in an intensive care unit (ICU), researchers say.
The findings are based on an analysis of electronic health records for 2,000 COVID-19 patients. All had tested positive for the virus at some point between this past March and August. And just over 10% of the patients had previously been vaccinated for the flu.
"The flu and COVID-19 are indeed different disease processes caused by different viruses," stressed study author Dr. Ming-Jim Yang. "Although some of the symptoms may overlap between the two diseases, they potentially have different short-term and long-term consequences."
Yes I have had my Flu Jab, been having one every year since my heart attack in 1988. From what you are saying the thought that it may be of some help during this pandemic is of some comfort. Thank you for the information. I know there is no certainty in life but we all need a bit of hope at the moment. I am following you as one of the other contributors to this site did say that you were very informative.
Had my jab on Saturday after years of refusing it. Hope you're right!
Wish I had a choice but's it's virtually impossible to get the flu vaccine in my area. Tried pharmacies and GP but all waiting on stock, and no idea when supplies are coming!
Hi I have finally managed to get an appointment. It may be worth u ring around today as there seems to be some new stocks in for the new month. Good luck.
Biased opinion make the scientific world more clueless. The countries which has highest coverage of Flu vaccine has the highest rate of COVID-19 mortality. We may ignore that as they cannot be manipulated by statistical analysis.
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