As the respiratory virus season progresses in Texas, state health officials are urging residents to get flu vaccinations ahead of Thanksgiving. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports that flu shots are widely available at public health clinics, doctor’s offices, and pharmacies throughout the state.
The arrival of cooler weather, increased travel, and holiday gatherings are expected to raise the risk of influenza transmission. Public health authorities recommend that everyone aged six months and older receive a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Immunity from the vaccine takes about two weeks to develop, so early vaccination is advised for protection during the holidays.
“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 in the United States during last year’s flu season. Research published in 2010 estimated that seasonal influenza costs exceeded $87 billion annually; when adjusted for inflation this figure rises to approximately $131 billion.
Common symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, cough, fatigue, and chills. These symptoms can persist for a week or longer. Prescription antiviral medications may help reduce illness severity and duration if started within 48 hours after symptoms begin.
Flu viruses primarily spread through droplets released when infected individuals talk, sneeze or cough. Indirect transmission can also occur by touching contaminated surfaces before touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes. While vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against influenza infection, other steps 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.
