Yearly vaccinations are one of the best ways to protect your health and the health of the people around you (especially your teammates)!  They strengthen your immune system and keep the season going strong so everyone can stay in the game together.

Why Vaccines are Important

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), staying up to date on vaccinations is especially important. It helps reduce the risk of serious illness and supports overall well-being. The Flu can be especially dangerous for people with disabilities and different medical conditions. It can lead to serious complications, hospitalization, or make everyday health challenges worse.

People with disabilities may be at higher risk because:

They may have difficulties with lung function, coughing, or swallowing.

They may have close contact with caregivers, service providers, or family members, increasing their exposure to illness.

Some may have trouble communicating how they feel or recognizing early symptoms of illness.

That’s why getting a flu vaccine each year is so important! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year, ideally by the end of October.

Managing Fear of Needles

It’s very common to feel nervous or scared about getting a shot. Needle fear can make people avoid vaccines, but there are many ways to make the experience easier!

Tips to handle fear and pain:

·      Ask questions: Knowing what will happen and why can make the process less scary.

·      Practice: Talk through the steps with someone you trust or practice beforehand.

·      Choose a private space: This can make some people feel more comfortable.

·      Use numbing cream or spray: This can help reduce pain.

·      Distract the brain: Rubbing the skin, using a buzzer, or holding something cold can help shift focus away from the needle.

·      Bring something comforting: A toy, video, or favorite activity can help ease anxiety.

·      Take deep breaths: Breathing slowly can help calm your mind.

Prevention Protects Everyone

By getting vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re helping protect your teammates, friends, family, and community. Staying healthy means fewer missed practices, fewer canceled games, and more time doing what you love. As winter approaches and illnesses spread more easily, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to keep the season running smoothly and your team strong all the way to the finish.

Inclusive health content is sponsored by Tufts Health Plan, the Official Health Insurance Partner of Special Olympics Massachusetts. Tufts Health Plan and Special Olympics Massachusetts are dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles through resources that support individuals with and without intellectual disabilities. To learn more about Tufts Health One Care, a health plan for those with disabilities who have Medicare and Medicaid, visit TuftsHealthPlan.com/SOMA