Flu Season Hits Hard: Why Vaccination Matters Now More Than Ever

Philadelphia sees a rise in emergency room visits compared to last year.

Health Experts Urge Vaccination

• Flu causing serious complications, especially in children.
• New flu variant, subclade K, spreading rapidly.
• Vaccine mismatch may reduce effectiveness but still helps in reducing severe outcomes.

Expert Insights

"While the flu vaccine might not prevent infection entirely, it can make the illness milder and easier to treat." — Dr. Brett Gilbert, Infectious Disease Specialist

Children at Risk

• Only about half of Pennsylvania's children vaccinated this season.
• Severe cases in unvaccinated kids, including rare complications like muscle damage and paralysis. > "It's never too late to get vaccinated, as flu season can last until May." > — Dr. Daniel Taylor, Pediatrician

Vaccination and Protection

• Vaccination rates lower than previous years.
• Free vaccines available at health centers in Philadelphia.
• Masks can help protect others from getting sick.