COVID-19 Update: COVID-19 and the flu
Flu season is rapidly approaching. In any year I would encourage you to get your flu shot and practice healthy habits, but this year it is vitally important to do what you can to stay well. The flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory viruses and taking measures to avoid the flu and stay healthy can help keep you safe from serious complications should you be exposed to the Coronavirus.
The flu shares many similar symptoms with COVID-19. Both viruses can cause fever, body aches, fatigue, and a cough, among other overlapping symptoms. Often the only way to know what illness you have is to be tested for both. The CDC provides more information about the similarities and differences between these two viruses on this website.
The good news is that many of the steps you are already taking to protect yourself and those close to you from COVID-19 can also protect you from the flu. Social distancing and wearing proper face coverings lower your risk of contracting or spreading the flu. Frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded indoor areas, and staying home if you do not feel well are also imperative. Fortunately, you can also be vaccinated to reduce your risk of catching the flu. And, if you are vaccinated, but still become sick, your flu symptoms may not be as severe as they would be had you not been vaccinated.
The Smithsonian is once again offering flu shots to employees, affiliated staff, volunteers, and contractors. This year we’re doing all we can to maximize safety by hosting drive-thru and scheduled clinic appointments. We’re also asking that you complete associated paperwork beforehand to minimize the amount of time spent at your appointment. To learn more about this year’s flu shot procedures, please visit here.
Unfortunately, we won’t be able to reach as many locations in person as we have been in prior years, and we are especially missing you in New York and Massachusetts! We look forward to returning to our normal locations next year so we can continue to support everyone with wellness appointments, medical surveillance, and influenza vaccinations…. maybe even COVID vaccines if we are able. The good news is that most pharmacies and your doctor can also administer the flu vaccine for free or at a minimal cost through insurance. If you cannot attend a Smithsonian session, please seek out alternative ways to receive your flu vaccine.
Please remember to stay home if you aren’t feeling well. This is the single most important thing you can do to protect those around you from COVID-19 and the flu. Take your health screening questions every day and stay home if you answer yes to any of the questions. When you are on site, protect those around you by always wearing a face covering and staying at least 6 feet away. If someone reminds you – thank them. We’re shifting our culture – we will take care of each other by practicing safer socialization! The symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are too similar to risk it. If you feel sick, stay home, contact your doctor, follow their instructions, telework if possible, and most importantly take time to get well.
By following all the safety procedures Smithsonian has put in place, you are doing so much to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the flu. You are protecting your co-workers and their families. Thank you for looking out for yourselves and for each other.
Stay safe and be well,
Anne McDonough MD MPH
Public Health Officer, SI COVID-19 Response
Associate Director Occupational Health Services, OSHEM
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Posted: 29 September 2020
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