CDC director visits Philadelphia Walgreens to urge people to get vaccinated before the holidays
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The head of the CDC visited Philadelphia on Monday to urge people to get vaccinated before the holidays.
The director is worried the winter will usher in another round of infections because not enough people are getting the recommended vaccinations.
Dr. Mandy Cohen, the CDC director, was at Walgreens urging people to get vaccinated.
"It's really important to get as much protection now ahead of the winter," Dr. Cohen said.
The updated COVID booster and seasonal flu shots are recommended for everyone over six months.
The RSV vaccine is for babies, the elderly and pregnant women.
The director said the timing for the vaccines is critical so people are protected before the holiday season.
SEE ALSO: How to get the new COVID vaccine for free, with or without insurance
"We want to have nice Thanksgivings. We want to have great Christmases. Get protected now," she said.
But even though 65% of adults know vaccination is the best way to prevent flu hospitalizations and deaths – 43% do not plan to or are not sure they will get vaccinated, according to one survey.
Only 40% plan to get the new updated COVID-19 vaccine and the RSV shot.
Stephanie Stahl: "Interest in vaccines has been declining – are you concerned about that?
Dr. Cohen: "I know folks want to be done with COVID, but it is still here. This virus has changed. So you want the updated vaccine that's matched to the changes in the virus. And two, the protection you've gotten from past vaccines or having COVID is decreasing."
Dr. Cohen said yearly flu shots are just as important. Influenza was especially bad for children last year.
"It didn't hurt," Alexandra Pompan said while getting her shot.
Pompan, who works at the Walgreens, received both a COVID and a flu shot
"Kill two birds with one stone – nice opportunity for me," she said.
Now she'll be protected through the holiday season. It takes about two weeks for the vaccines to take effect.
COVID hospitalizations in New Jersey are up 23% over the last two weeks.
A new variant is circulating, which is why doctors are saying the new updated booster is so important.
