Following a year of vaccinations, many of us are simply tired of needles. But believe it or not, flu season is right around the corner, and seniors like Lois Birchard are hoping to get ahead of it.
“It’s very important because I think the flu shot is one of the most important things you should get other than the COVID now,” said Birchard, an Endicott resident.
Nurse Practitioner Brett Dietzman has seen the dangers many of these seniors are facing first hand with COVID-19 numbers rising and flu season approaching. As a health care worker, he knows just how important it is for them to stay on top of their wellness, especially right now.
“Those individuals are more susceptible to when they get sick, the consequences could be pretty significant, so having that and getting the vaccines, especially in this population, is critical,” said Dietzman.
In Broome County, the Office for Aging is partnering with Lourdes hospital to offer senior flu clinics at various sites. Dietzman says while COVID is a threat, we should never underestimate the dangers the flu can cause.
“Everybody is so focused on COVID, we have to remember that the other diseases that are out there and the flu is still another deadly disease and so making sure that you stay healthy as best you can and get the vaccines that you need I think is the reason why it’s important,” said Dietzman.
If you missed out on a flu shot clinic and would like to attend one, visit the Broome County website for more information.
