Over the last year and a half, Young Invincibles has successfully led our Generation Vaxxed Campaign across the country to get young people vaccinated and now boosted. With dedicated outreach specialists in each region, we have doubled down on community outreach and meeting people where they are. Through our experiences, we learned one of the biggest factors in vaccine hesitancy was the lack of information and necessary resources to feel knowledgeable about the vaccine.

Through sharing literature about these vaccines at local events, community centers and college campuses, we’ve connected with over 80,000 people through one-on-one conversations and helped hundreds get vaccinated. While the decision to get vaccinated is a personal one, it’s a decision that has a huge community impact. The more we can reduce the illnesses circulating, the more we can protect vulnerable communities like the elderly, newborns and immunocompromised folks.

After the masking and distancing of the Covid-19 pandemic tamped down two seasons of the flu, there is evidence that we are heading into a heavy flu winter. And we can also expect an increase in Covid cases as we have in the last two years. What’s worse, some experts believe we are unprepared for this upcoming onslaught of illness.

Flu shot data so far this year shows uptake is lagging behind the last few years. We are also behind when it comes to the expected number of people who opt into getting the newly-updated Covid vaccine formulated to the omicron variants. We have already seen hospitalizations climbing in many areas as a result of Covid, the flu, and other illnesses. We may be dangerously close to straining our medical system beyond capacity in many places.

All of this points to a bad winter for America. For many fortunate folks, it may just be the disruption of a week sick in bed. But for others, it will be deadly.

As we enter the colder months that pose a significant threat of illness as people gather inside and because evidence points to viruses are being more effective at spreading in cold temperatures, our campaign is working to educate young adults on their FluBoo, both the newly-updated Covid-19 booster and flu shot. We have seen how the public health emergency devastated communities and we want to help provide as much information and protection against that this winter.

Hearing doctors say it’s safe and effective to get both the flu shot and newly-updated Covid booster at the same time has helped ease anxiety about FluBoo season. Not only is it convenient, but it also ensures you don’t delay either of these important vaccines. Doctors also recommend getting boosted two weeks before holiday plans so the vaccine can be fully effective, however that does not mean you shouldn’t get it if you don’t have a two-week window prior.

For organizations relaying vaccine information to the community, consistency is critical in this work. Sharing information about Covid-19 and the flu isn’t always met with open arms, but it is imperative to keep trying. Our organization and outreach specialists have seen that, in this work and beyond, starting the conversation is the most important part. If you can start a dialogue, you can start change.

We’ve learned it’s a communal effort to stay safe and you can also do your part to help encourage the community-wide uptake of vaccinations. Check in with family and friends to see if they have gotten their FluBoo shots yet. Offer to drive folks to their appointment if they don’t have transportation. Help older folks make appointments online.

If you run a business: support your staff who choose to get their FluBoo by sending around medically accurate information and ensuring everyone has paid time off to get their vaccines and also sick time to recover from any potential side effects.

If you want to help keep Covid or the flu from sidelining you for the holiday season, you can find learn more about the vaccines and where to book an appointment online.

The information provided here is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice concerning your specific situation.