Jodie Hermann discusses flu season with WMTW
Jodie Hermann, D.O. 鈥06, MBA, chair of the Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine and assistant clinical professor in the College of Osteopathic Medicine, recently discussed with the upcoming flu season in Maine and the importance of getting vaccinated.
Flu shots are now available in Maine, and health experts say getting vaccinated this year might be more important than ever because of COVID-19.
"It's important to get your flu shot because a vaccination is something that will stimulate your immune system,鈥 Hermann told WMTW.
Maine CDC officials are recommending flu shots and increased vigilance as winter approaches. Aside from keeping people healthy, the flu shot and the resulting decreased rates of influenza will free up space and resources for hospitals and medical professionals to treat COVID-19 patients if cases of the illness continue to rise.
Hermann says the shot will give Mainers added protection to fight off the seasonal flu during a time where there is no vaccine for COVID-19.
"If in fact somebody had two infections at the same time, influenza and COVID-19, at least you would be prepared for the influenza and your body can pay attention to COVID,鈥 Hermann explained.
While state health officials urge the public to make time to get their flu shots this year, they say it is still unclear when a vaccine for the coronavirus might be available