NC health officials address why some people skip the flu shot

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — As flu season approaches its peak, health officials are encouraging people to get vaccinated, calling it one of the best ways to protect against the virus. However, some people remain hesitant about getting the flu shot.

On the final day of Flu Awareness Week, North Carolina State Epidemiologist Zack Moore with the Department of Health and Human Services discussed reasons people may choose not to get vaccinated.

Moore said he believes two main factors contribute to lower vaccination rates: access to vaccines and misinformation.

While North Carolina’s size and rural communities can create challenges, Moore said flu vaccines are widely available across the state.

“They are available widely in pharmacies, doctors’ offices, federally qualified health centers, all the usual spots. There are a lot of efforts across the state to make sure that vaccines are available for people in ways that are convenient and they can access them easily. We’ve seen increases in recent years in people deciding not to get a range of vaccines because of some of the, you know, information that’s out there that may not be accurate,” said Moore.

Moore said inaccurate information surrounding vaccines may contribute to people’s decisions not to get vaccinated.

He encourages anyone with questions or concerns to speak with their health care provider about whether the flu vaccine is right for them and their family.