Last reviewed: October 25, 2021
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Overview
Seasonal influenza transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic risks further stress on already-burdened health systems. Although U.S. influenza activity was low during the 2020–21 season, it is not clear how the timing and intensity of the 2021–22 influenza season will compare, particularly given differences in social distancing and masking practices between the two seasons.
CDC “recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older with any licensed, age-appropriate flu vaccine (IIV4, RIV4 or LAIV4),” preferably before the end of October. Flu vaccination is a critical tool to prevent potential severe complications from influenza.
In terms of influenza vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine coadministration, CDC guidance states that COVID-19 vaccines “may be administered without regard to timing of other vaccines. … If multiple vaccines are administered at a single visit, administer each injection in a different injection site.”
This page includes key influenza resources for clinicians in the context of COVID-19 and will be updated as the season progresses.