It’s flu season and we’re also dealing with the effects of coronavirus. That’s the one-two punch we never anticipated but it makes getting a flu shot more important than ever, especially for high-risk groups. That includes me so I received my vaccine a few week ago. Took a few minutes and thanks to the incentives that many flu shot locations are offering walked away with a $10 gift card from Publix. The card is nice but increasing my chances of not contracting the flu is most important. So why should you get your shot? Earlier this week I spoke with Dr. Nathan Waldrep, Chief Medical Officer for BayCare Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine, and Medical Director for BayCare Home Care and BayCare Telehealth on why this flu season is different from past seasons thanks to COVID-19 and why you shouldn’t delay that vaccination.

For more information on where you can get your vaccination visit BayCare.org. You can also find the latest information on COVID-19 and where to get tested. Keep it safe Tampa Bay!

Ann Kelly is a paid endorser for BayCare.

Cox Media Group