Flu Shot May Lessen the Chance of Contracting Coronavirus, Study Says
The upcoming flu season has caused concern as it coincides with the coronavirus pandemic, but experts say the flu shot may decrease your chances of getting coronavirus as well.
- By Nikki Johnson-Bolden
- Nov 02, 2020
A preliminary study discovered a possible link between getting a flu shot and a lesser likelihood of contracting COVID-19, says Business Insider.
A group of 10,600 healthcare workers in the Netherlands were studied, and 184 of them had tested positive for coronavirus by June 1. Of the workers who hadn’t gotten a flu shot, 2.23% tested positive, while 1.33% of those who did get a flu shot tested positive.
It is advised that people get flu shots, especially this year, as they reduce the risk of getting the flu by 60%.
Experts predict that flu cases might not be as high this winter because of precautions that many people are already taking due to coronavirus, such as wearing masks, social distancing and frequent hand washing.
About the Author
Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.