Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

This year’s influenza vaccines became available for the public on October 5. Individuals from the following groups qualify for public-funded flu shots: preschool toddlers older than 6 months; students from elementary school through high school; adults above 50 years old; patients with chronic, rare, and serious diseases; pregnant women, and parents with babies under 6 months, as well as staff working at nursing homes, senior homes, clinics, long-term care facilities, medical and quarantine personnel, and veterinary and animal health facilities.
 
Since many people are curious about the relationship between the flu and COVID-19, Doctor Ho Sung-ying from Taipei City Hospital (TCH) Zhongxiao Campus provides answers to 4 frequently-asked questions:
 
Q: Can flu shots protect you from COVID-19?
A: No. Flu vaccination helps you develop protection against the influenza virus, not the coronavirus which causes COVID-19.
 
Q: Is it possible for COVID-19 and Influenza outbreaks to happen at the same time during the fall or winter seasons?
A: Nobody knows. However, there is always a possibility for the two outbreaks to occur simultaneously. That’s why the public should remain cautious and continue practicing pandemic prevention measures.
 
Q: Can people get infected with both COVID-19 and the flu?
A: Yes. However, scientists and medical experts do not have the data to determine the incidence rate of contracting both COVID-19 and influenza. This requires further research by experts.
 
Q: Should people receive flu shot, given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?
A: Experts suggest that those who qualify for flu shots receive one. From the individual’s perspective, flu shot helps to strengthen your defense against influenza, thereby minimizing your chance of developing complications and severe symptoms. From the perspective of society, flu vaccination can effectively reduce the medical resources required for dealing with influenza outbreaks, which means more resources for COVID-19 prevention preparations.
 
The doctor from TCH reminds the public that even though COVID-19 remains under control in Taiwan, people should not let their guards down. Since flu vaccination does not protect you from COVID-19, you should still continue to practice preventive measures such as wearing face mask and washing hands. Of course, receiving your flu shot is always recommended.