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DEERFIELD, Ill. — The majority of Americans — nearly two-thirds — will get a flu shot this year, according to Walgreens 2018-2019 Flu Season Survey.
The study reported that, with missed holiday parties and postponed vacations, last year’s flu season led to loads of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as the strain of Influenza A led to more serious complications and high rates of hospitalization nationwide. Public health advocates urged those with the flu to keep it as contained as possible, which meant missing holiday parties, travel excursions, and enjoying time with family and friends.
Fear of missing out was a dominant survey result, as 82% of Americans say having the flu made them miss out on things they wanted to do last year. Other key findings of the study include 31% saying the flu made them miss time with family, 28% cancel plans with friends, 16% skip exercise and 15% pass on entertainment.
Of millennials taking part in Walgreens survey, a majority, 52%, actually look forward to catching up on their favorite TV shows while battling the flu. Still, nearly two-thirds of millennials, 70%, said they planned on getting the flu shot this year.
Another important consideration in getting flu shots, Walgreens found, was protecting oneself and others in the workplace from germs on shared objects such as telephones, keyboards and transit rails — all of which become even more important as flu season approaches. Early immunization against the flu provides people the chance to help themselves and others stay healthy.
Nearly 40% of survey respondents also reported going to work when sick with the flu, and one in 10 reported attending a party or social gathering. Of those taking part, 88% who had the flu said it made them more concerned about contamination and germs.
And in terms of American seniors, two in five, 41%, stay home, while 40% avoid public gatherings, to protect themselves from the flu.
Since 2010, according to the retailer, more than 60 million Americans have received their flu vaccine from Walgreens.
