As the 2021-2022 flu season gets started and with the focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to make sure that the importance of protecting ourselves from flu is not forgotten.. This newsletter will highlight what you need to know to keep you, your patients, and your families safe from the flu during this upcoming flu season.
Getting a Flu Vaccine During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Information for Healthcare Professionals
Administering Flu Vaccine During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Testing and Treatment of Respiratory Illness when SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Viruses are Co-circulating
Make a Strong Influenza Vaccine Recommendation (SHARE)
It is important that all patients receive a strong recommendation for vaccination from their provider. The CDC suggests using the SHARE method to make a strong vaccine recommendation and provide important information to help patients make informed decisions about vaccinations.
SHARE the reasons why an influenza vaccine is right for the patient given his or her age, health status, lifestyle, occupation, or other risk factors.
HIGHLIGHT positive experiences with influenza vaccines (personal or in your practice), as appropriate, to reinforce the benefits and strengthen confidence in influenza vaccination.
ADDRESS patient questions and any concerns about influenza vaccines, including side effects, safety, and vaccine effectiveness in plain and understandable language. Acknowledge that while people who get an influenza vaccine may still get sick, there are studies that show that illness may be less severe.
REMIND patients that influenza vaccines help protect them and their loved ones from serious influenza illness and complications that can result in hospitalization or even death for some people.
EXPLAIN the potential costs of getting influenza, including potential serious health effects for the patient, time lost (such as missing work or family obligations), financial costs, and potentially spreading influenza to more vulnerable family or friends.
Share this informational handout with your patients who want additional information, have questions, or decline influenza vaccination at first recommendation. This resource will provide context to the efficacy of the influenza vaccine and highlight its safety.
These downloadable stickers can be printed on laser and inkjet printers. They fit Avery label numbers 22807, 22817, 22825, 41464, 41494, 22923, 22933, 22921, 22961, 80510, 92807, 4227
This material was prepared by Qsource, an End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. 21.Q-ESRD.09.090
