Make sure you get the right flu vaccine this season

Doctors are warning a “Twindemic” could emerge if people don’t get vaccinated for the flu this season. People are encourage to get vaccinated, but it’s important to ensure you get the right one.

More than one flu shot is on the market, and getting it at the wrong time could expose yourself to illness.

There are two vaccines for the seasonal flu. There’s one shot for 99% of the population. The other one is typically for seniors with weakened immune systems.

Getting a flu shot is an annual tradition for James Williams

“I live with 156 people in a retirement home,” Williams said. “They are very careful with the COVID-19 pandemic and have to get the flu shot in a timely manner.”

Williams did his duty at Cypress Pharmacy in south Fort Myers. He went to get vaccinated with his son, Robert Williams.

“If he gets the flu at his age, it’s a major deal,” Robert said. “With this COVID thing, it’s never good. So we made time to come here and get it done.”

This flu season, the CDC director worries we might see a rare “Twindemic,” with people getting the flu and COVID-19.That’s why he wants everyone to get a flu shot as soon as possible.

“Especially since coronavirus is causing lung complications, you really want to protect yourself,” said Justin Ceravolo, the assistant pharmacy manager at Cypress Pharmacy.

The vaccine best taken by a majority of the population is for those who are looking for protection against the four expected strains of flu. The other shot is a booster of sorts for seniors who have weakened immune systems.

“We want everyone vaccinated, and we’re not going to charge you an arm and a leg for something very important,” Ceravolo said.

The CDC says it’s not too early to get a flu shot. In fact, it’s the perfect time, as cooler weather approaches.

“It was like they didn’t even put the needle in,” Robert Wightman said.

If you have insurance, flu shots are free at places like Publix, Target, Walmart, CVS and Walgreens. If you don’t have insurance, check with the health department where you live. They typically offer free flu shots as well.

“It’s so easy to get, might as well get it and get it over with,” James Williams said.