African Americans More Likely to Skip Flu Shot CDC reports African Americans remain at high risk for severe flu complications

It’s never fun to be sick, but the flu is more serious than the common cold. Unfortunately, studies show there are significant health-related inequities in flu vaccination rates and flu-related complications, particularly in the African American community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans experience disproportionately higher rates of chronic health conditions. With only approximately 40% of African Americans getting vaccinated, these chronic health conditions place them at a higher risk of severe flu complications. The most effective strategy for reducing the effect of the flu within the African American community is to get vaccinated.
“It is so important for us as African Americans to get an annual influenza vaccine because of increased health risk factors,” said Dr. Okonkwo-Holmes. “Getting vaccinated can reduce flu-related illnesses, doctor’s visits and missed school and workdays. Influenza vaccination in high-risk individuals has also been linked to favorable health outcomes, including fewer flu-related hospitalizations and death. High-risk individuals include children, the elderly, immune compromised individuals and those with severe chronic conditions.”
Protect yourself and the people you care about against the flu with these simple tips:
Get your flu shot
It’s your best defense. The vaccination can’t give you the flu —but it can help protect you against this year’s most common strains and prevent spreading the flu to others. Don’t get the flu — get the flu shot!
Boost immunity with healthy habits
Simple things that support overall health can also help you fight the flu. Wash your hands often, and keep hand sanitizer handy. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat lots of fruits and veggies, and drink plenty of water.
Keep your germs to yourself
If you do get the flu, do yourself and your co-workers a favor and stay home. You need rest, fluids, and time to recover — and going to work sick can make symptoms worse and spread the illness around your workplace.
For more information about the flu, visit the Kaiser Permanente website at kp.org/flu.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and nonprofit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.