Healthy Habits: Covid-19 and Flu Vaccination

 Many areas around the country are experiencing the repercussions of in-person learning this school year as children and college-age students have seen a spike in cases. 

Another concern for students returning to schools is the anticipation of the “double whammy” of both influenza season and COVID-19. A recent report found child flu vaccination rates have been on the decline during the COVID-19 pandemic by an estimated 21.5% from January to April 2020. 

You can learn more about the risks our nation faces this school year by visiting our full report here: https://quotewizard.com/news/posts/child-flu-vaccinations-by-state

An analysis by QuoteWizard found : 

• State ranking (1-50) based on states that have lowest to highest child vaccination rates.
• The Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that nearly 1.5 million teachers (one in four) are at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
• The national average rate of vaccinated children in the United States is 58%.
• During the coronavirus pandemic, New York City saw vaccination rates drop 63% — 91% for kids older than two.
• Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut have the highest rates of vaccinated children. Wyoming, Florida and Utah have the lowest rates.

I had a chance to interview Senior research analyst, Adam C. Johnson to learn more.

What factors contributed to the ranking?

"We looked at the child vaccination rate in each state based on the American Academy of Pediatrics 2017 data. With an average rate of child vaccinations at an already low 58%, it was expected that this year we would see even fewer vaccinated children into the school year."

Why is there concern about a "double whammy?"

"As child vaccination rates declined 21.5% from January to April of this year (due to the pandemic), the chances of a strong flu season are more likely. 

In most other years, a moderate flu season sees over 490,000 hospitalizations. With a decline in vaccinations, an increase in flu hospitalizations paired with COVID-19 related hospitalizations we could see hospital capacity overwhelmed."

What can families do to help stay healthy this season?

"It is recommended to get a flu shot every year, but this year it is even more imperative. Staying caught up with vaccinations and doing your part to stay healthy and safe. The CDC recommends continuing to practice social distancing as well as wearing a mask in public settings."