Last week’s school shooting in Minneapolis was heartbreaking. Many in our communities are grieving, shaken, or simply trying to process what happened. You may be, too.
We’re holding space for that—and for the essential work you continue to do in moments like this. Whether you’re providing vital health care services, offering support, sharing resources, or just showing up, it matters. Thank you.
This week, articles about FluMist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, generated questions about where it is available in Minnesota and false claims about flu vaccine safety. Plus, social media posts promoting back-to-school vaccines fueled debate about whether kids need vaccines to stay healthy.
But first, confusion around COVID-19 vaccine recommendations continued after the Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for older adults and people with certain health conditions last week.
Topic 1
Confusion about COVID-19 vaccine eligibility persists
In response, many social media users in Minnesota shared a post from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. falsely suggesting that AAP is bribed by pharmaceutical companies.
Some commenters expressed confusion about who should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine and when. Others repeated false claims about COVID-19 vaccine safety, including the myth that the vaccines cause widespread heart problems.
Why this matters:
While COVID-19 cases are still low in Minnesota, ER visits are increasing, and cases are rising in other states. As guidance continues to evolve, community members have questions about COVID-19 vaccines this season.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
On August 27, the FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for adults 65 and older and for people 6 months and older with certain health conditions.
Check with your health care provider and local pharmacy about getting an updated vaccine.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
The FDA recently approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for adults 65 and older and for people 6 months and older with certain health conditions. Older adults are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, which could lead to hospitalization, long-term health problems, and death. Check with your health care provider and local pharmacy about getting the updated vaccine.
In response to FluMist news, commenters debate flu vaccine safety
What’s happening:
Minnesota news outlets recently reported that FluMist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, is now available for home use. However, some articles did not clarify that FluMist is not available for home use in Minnesota and can only be accessed at some Minnesota pharmacies and health departments.
Social media users discussed unsuccessful attempts to order at-home FluMist and asked whether it is an effective option, while others questioned the safety of all flu vaccines.
Why this matters:
As flu season approaches, community members may be wondering which flu vaccines are available in Minnesota and where to get them.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
The flu vaccine is available as either a shot or a nasal spray. This season’s flu vaccine is approved and recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about options.
In Minnesota, flu vaccines are available at many doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and local health departments.
All flu vaccines are thoroughly tested to ensure that they’re safe. Getting vaccinated every year reduces the risk of severe illness and death from the flu.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Flu season is just around the corner, and flu vaccines are available now at many doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and local health departments in Minnesota. All flu vaccines are thoroughly tested to ensure that they’re safe, and getting vaccinated every year reduces the risk of severe illness and death from the flu.
In August, several social media posts and local news outlets promoted back-to-school vaccine drives and encouraged parents to ensure that their children are up to date on required vaccines.
While some commenters correctly stated that vaccines help kids stay healthy, others falsely claimed that vaccines are unnecessary and unsafe for children.
Why this matters:
As children return to school, they’re more likely to get sick and bring germs home. This is a critical time to educate families about which vaccines children need and how we know they’re safe.
All vaccines are thoroughly tested before they’re approved for any age group, and serious side effects are extremely rare.
Minnesota requires kids to receive certain vaccines at different ages before they go to school. Talk to your health care provider to ensure that your children are up to date.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Vaccines required for school help safely protect your kids—and those around them—from serious illness. In Minnesota, children need certain shots before kindergarten, seventh grade, and 12th grade. Not sure what’s due? Talk to your health care provider to make sure your child is up to date.
Confusion and false claims about flu vaccines are spreading online. Share this story to inform your community about who needs a flu vaccine, how much it costs, and when to get one.
Public Good News is a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to community health. We partner with trusted local voices throughout the U.S. to distribute accurate, accessible, and inclusive health news in English and Spanish.
