AAIP Flu Vaccine Initiative for Native Americans
Our fight against the flu
AAIP is pleased to partner with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to increase influenza vaccination rates among American Indians and Alaska Natives. The seasonal flu vaccine is safe, effective and widely available.
According to the CDC, flu and pneumonia rank within the top 10 leading causes of death among American Indians — with American Indians and Alaska Natives at a significantly increased risk of hospitalization and death from the conditions compared with non-Indigenous people. While these conditions can be deadly, they’re often also prevented or mitigated with a yearly flu shot.
Increasing flu vaccination rates is one way to ensure our tribal cultures survive and are preserved for future generations.
According to the Indian Health Service, the seasonal flu vaccination is “especially important for American Indians and Alaska Natives, who are at higher risk for complications from the flu.” Contact your local Indian Health Service clinic, pharmacy or doctor to schedule your flu vaccine.
With very limited exceptions, everyone 6 months and older should get the seasonal flu vaccine each year. When you get the vaccine, you protect your community, your family and yourself.
Experts say getting the seasonal flu vaccine is especially important as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and healthcare systems are stretched to serve patients. AAIP and the CDC agree you can even get your seasonal flu shot at the same time you get your COVID-19 vaccine.
Will you join our fight against seasonal flu?
Our mission is to improve and protect the health of indigenous cultures, that’s why we’re encouraging all American Indians and Alaska Natives to get vaccinated against seasonal flu when eligible. The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for anyone 6 months and older.
