Flu season, COVID-19 could create 'twindemic'
The flu season was mild last year, which some experts say was the result of mask-wearing and social distancing to prevent COVID-19.
But there are fewer mask mandates this season, which has doctors worried about a possible "twindemic:" a surge in cases of both the flu and the coronavirus.
"There is some worry that because people weren't exposed to the flu last year, there will be a little bit less natural immunity, and as a result, there may be a more severe flu season this year," said Dr. John Goldman, with .
Goldman said a typical flu season already puts a strain on the health care system.
"Add flu on top of COVID, and we'll be either at or beyond our capacity," he said.
"We're anticipating that we're going to see higher cases of influenza," said Dr. Eugene Curley, with .
Curley said in order to keep people from getting severely ill and taking up beds in hospitals still treating COVID-19 patients, people should get vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu.
"Get vaccinated for both. That is the best way that you can prevent getting influenza or COVID-19," Curley said.
Not all kids can get the COVID-19 vaccine, but most can get the flu shot. The that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine.
"It's going to also be our best way at avoiding a so-called twindemic and getting out of this COVID-19 pandemic," Curley said.
Doctors recommend getting the flu shot in October so protection will last through the entire season.
The CDC said people can safely get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines simultaneously.
