About the News Conference

Leading national infectious disease experts presented final influenza (flu) vaccine coverage data from the 2021-2022 US flu season and discussed the importance of vaccination against flu and pneumococcal disease, particularly among older adults and those with chronic health conditions who are at higher risk for related complications.

Results from a new NFID national survey of US adults were also shared on vaccination attitudes and behaviors, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, at the 2022 National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) Influenza/Pneumococcal Disease News Conference on Tuesday, October 4, 2022.

Panelists included: Tamika C. Auguste, MD, ACOG Fellow and Chair, Women’s and Infants’ Services, MedStar Washington Hospital Center; William Schaffner, MD, NFID Medical Director; Patricia (Patsy) A. Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP, NFID President (Moderator); Jeb S. Teichman, MD, Retired Pediatrician and Healthcare Executive; and Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director, with additional expert Alicia M. Fry, MD, MPH, Chief, Epidemiology and Prevention Branch, Influenza Division, CDC.

The Dangers of Flu
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Heart Disease and Flu

Graphics on the importance of flu prevention for people with heart disease

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The Dangers of Influenza: Why People with Diabetes Need to Get Vaccinated
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Diabetes and Flu

Graphics on the importance of flu prevention for people with diabetes

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Older adult man getting a prescription filled
FAQs & Fact Sheets

Influenza (Flu) Treatment

Flu antiviral drugs can be used to treat flu illness and help prevent serious flu-related complications, including hospitalization and death

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Real Stories, Real People

Dan’s Story (Pneumonia)

Dan has a chronic health condition. This makes him more likely to get pneumonia. A vaccine may have saved his life.

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Surveys and Publications

2025 National Survey on Respiratory Diseases

The 2025 national survey examines attitudes and behaviors regarding flu, RSV, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease.

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Respiratory Immunization Graphics

Graphics and sample social posts to help raise awareness about preventing COVID-19, flu, RSV, and pneumococcal disease

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