There are early signs that the 2022-23 flu season in the U.S. could be severe. Flu hospitalizations are rising, and they are higher than usual at this time in the season, according to recent CDC data. Flu is one of several respiratory illnesses circulating, including RSV and COVID-19.
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine. Effective, consistent communications strategies are critical to ensure that people know about and take necessary actions to prevent the spread of flu.
Use the following resources to emphasize topline messages, answer questions about flu in your community, and support your flu vaccination outreach efforts. These resources can be used by health departments, public health organizations, health care facilities, schools, businesses, community-based organizations, and any other organization or individual spreading awareness about the flu.
Topline Messages
Underscore the “what,” “why,” and “when” to communicate about this flu season and flu prevention.
- Get your flu shot. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine.
- There are early signs that this flu season could be severe. Data show that the flu season is ramping up early. Flu hospitalizations are higher at this point in the season than they have been in a decade. Flu is also spreading at the same time as other respiratory illnesses, including RSV and COVID-19.
- The best time to get vaccinated against flu is now. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, there’s still time to protect yourself from this year’s flu season.
- Get your COVID-19 booster the same day. It’s safe and convenient to get your flu shot and your COVID-19 vaccine or booster the same day, if you’re eligible for both.
Answers to Tough Questions
Visit our Answers to Tough Questions for full messaging guidance to help you answer questions in your community, such as:
- Who should get a flu vaccine?
- Is it too late in the season to get a flu shot if I haven’t yet?
- Can I get sick with flu even if I’m vaccinated?
- Can I get my flu shot and COVID-19 booster the same day?
- How do I know the difference between flu and COVID-19?
Are you looking for more information about flu season? Visit the CDC’s resource center About Flu.
Resources
- Vaccine Resource Hub: social media graphics, videos, and other toolkit resources in English and Spanish
- GetMyFluShot.org Campaign Toolkit: English and Spanish graphics, PSAs, and social media guidance from the Ad Council.
- CDC Digital Media Toolkit: social media images & messages, print ready materials, videos, and web resources. Click here for the CDC Digital Media Toolkit in Spanish.
- CMS Flu Outreach Toolkit: flu outreach materials in more than a dozen languages.
- Immunize.org and the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM): one-pager on communicating the benefits of the flu vaccine during COVID-19.
Do you have other flu resources that you want to share with the PHCC community? Share them with us here or tag us at @PH_Comms.
