What's happened
Health officials emphasize the importance of flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as winter approaches, coinciding with increased respiratory illnesses. Vaccination is crucial for vulnerable populations, including older adults and young children, to mitigate severe complications and hospitalizations during the holiday season.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent highlights the urgency of vaccinations as respiratory illnesses rise during winter, noting that COVID-19 cases typically increase around Thanksgiving. Dr. Demetre Daskalakis from the CDC emphasizes that while vaccines may not prevent all infections, they significantly reduce severity. In contrast, the South China Morning Post reports on a severe case of COVID-19 in a young child, underscoring the need for vaccinations among children, particularly those under three, where vaccination rates are low. This aligns with the Independent's call for increased vaccination efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
How we got here
As winter approaches, respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and flu typically surge, prompting health officials to advocate for vaccinations. Last year, vaccination rates were low, with only 45% of adults receiving flu shots and 23% for COVID-19.
Common question
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What is the significance of Moderna's new norovirus vaccine trials?
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Why are flu and COVID-19 vaccinations crucial this winter?
As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory illnesses like flu and COVID-19 increases significantly. Health officials are urging everyone, especially vulnerable populations, to get vaccinated. This page addresses common questions about the importance of vaccinations during the winter surge and highlights the latest statistics and recommendations.
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What Health Precautions Should You Take This Winter?
As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory illnesses like flu and COVID-19 increases. Health officials are urging everyone, especially vulnerable populations, to take necessary precautions. This page addresses common questions about health tips, vaccination guidance, and best practices to stay healthy during the holiday season.
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What Do You Need to Know About COVID-19 and Flu This Winter?
As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and flu increases. Health officials are urging vaccinations to protect vulnerable populations, especially children and older adults. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe this season.
More on these topics
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Moderna is an American biotechnology company focused on drug discovery, drug development, and vaccine technologies based exclusively on messenger RNA. It is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
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The COVID-19 pandemic, also known as the coronavirus pandemic, is an ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. It was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.
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Wesley Paul William Streeting is a British politician serving as the Member of Parliament for Ilford North since 2015, and since 2020 as Shadow Minister for Schools.