A Richmond doctor says there’s concern within the medical community of a stronger dose of influenza over the next several months. Dr. Ashish Patel is a primary physician with Baptist Health Richmond. The amount of COVID vaccinations and boosters he said could have some saying, enough shots already.
“Maybe we let our guard down, oh one more shot I don’t want to take this flu vaccine. But, we are used to the flu vaccine. We’ve done it on a yearly basis. It’s absolutely worth taking the flu vaccine,” said Patel.
Patel said a tough flu season in the southern hemisphere could lead to a bigger influenza period in the U.S. And the Madison County doctor noted a strong flu season could lead to serious illness in some people. The flu shot is recommended for everyone six months and older.
“If you get the flu, it is not a minor nuisance. It is lost work. The risk of infecting other people who may be at a higher risk for a more serious infection of the flu,” said Patel.
A free flu shot clinic is being held this Saturday from 9:00 to 3:00 for those nine years old and older at the mobile clinic at 107 Meridian Way in Richmond.
