As Texas moves deeper into the respiratory virus season, state health officials are urging residents to get their flu shots ahead of Thanksgiving. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports that flu vaccines are widely available at public health clinics, doctor’s offices, and pharmacies throughout the state.
With cooler weather, increased travel, and holiday gatherings expected in the coming weeks, public health authorities recommend that everyone six months of age and older receive a flu vaccination as soon as possible. It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for individuals to reach peak immunity.
“It is especially important for older adults, very young children, people with chronic health conditions and pregnant women to get protection from the flu,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH. “People in those higher risk groups are more likely to get seriously sick if they do get the flu, and some will inevitably need to be hospitalized and even die from their infections.”
According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), influenza led to at least 600,000 hospitalizations and tens of thousands of deaths across the United States during last year’s flu season. The economic impact of seasonal influenza was estimated at over $87 billion in a 2010 study; adjusted for inflation, this figure is now approximately $131 billion.
Flu symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, cough, fatigue, and chills. These symptoms can persist for a week or longer. Prescription antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of illness if started within 48 hours after symptoms begin.
The virus spreads mainly through droplets released when infected individuals talk, sneeze or cough. Transmission can also occur by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes. While vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent infection, other measures such as covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing and staying home when ill can help limit spread.
Residents seeking information on where to obtain a flu shot are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local pharmacy.
