Don’t Wait To Get This Year’s Flu Vaccine – Texas A&M University Today

Getting vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19 is an important step for staying healthy this fall and winter as both viruses continue to circulate.

Getty Images

Flu season is upon us again, and while case numbers in Texas remain relatively low, a physician with Texas A&M University Health Services says the best time to get vaccinated is right now.

Dr. Tiffany Skaggs, senior director of primary care and specialty medical care, says 2023 has been a light year for influenza so far, though infection rates are still slightly higher than they were last year at this time. Texas A&M Today recently spoke with Skaggs about the outlook for the rest of flu season and the simple steps Texans can take to keep themselves and others safe.

There is not a major change expected in symptoms and hospitalization based on strain differences this year compared to last year. However, everyone 6 months and older (especially those at high risk such as pregnant, elderly or those with underlying health conditions) should get this years flu vaccine. Last years vaccine will not protect against this years strains.

The best time to get it is now, before rates start to increase.We used to think that the vaccine wore off after a few months, but now we know that the more viral replications, the more drift from the strain that the vaccine was made for. In other words, early vaccination in the population is a good thing because it prevents infections, thus decreasing the viral replications as the virus circulates through a community.

Because COVID-19 and flu can both cause severe and life-threatening complications, the dual threat of these circulating at the same time has put the health care system on high alert. Healthcare facilities learned during the height of COVID-19 how to prepare for surge capacity in order to care for potentially large numbers of very ill people.

You can and you should.

If you are sick, stay home. Consider wearing a face covering if you are ill and in public or you will be in close proximity with anyone with a respiratory illness. Wash your hands and use good respiratory safety and etiquette (sneeze and cough into your elbow, and wash your hands before and after a cough, sneeze, rubbing eyes or nose.)

The CDC has excellent flu monitoring that can help forecast your areas activity.

University Health Services is providing no-cost flu vaccines for current Texas A&M students. Visit the University Health Services website to learn more and schedule a vaccination appointment.

Read more:

Don't Wait To Get This Year's Flu Vaccine - Texas A&M University Today