Protecting Houston during flu season begins with accurate information and timely vaccination. Flu comes around every year, but that does not mean we should take it lightly. It can cause serious illness, hospitalization, and missed days from work or school. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of requiring medical care by about 40% to 60%. While it cannot guarantee you will not get the flu, it can lower the likelihood of severe illness and hospitalization, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Rachel Woods, Houston Health Department

 

Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and headache. Simple steps such as covering coughs and sneezes, washing your hands frequently, cleaning often-touched surfaces, and stay home when sick.

So, what should we expect this flu season? The truth is, we do not know yet. The CDC has not issued official projections, so it would be premature to call this an early, late, mild, or severe season. Influenza returns every year, and this year’s vaccine has been updated to match circulating viruses, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Immunity from last year’s vaccine declines over time, while flu viruses continue to evolve, making annual vaccination important.

Every flu season brings questions and misinformation about the vaccine. Although the CDC recommends vaccination by the end of October, it is not too late once flu season begins. Vaccination later in the season can still be appropriate, particularly if you have not yet been vaccinated, and should continue as long as unexpired vaccine remains available.

Another common concern is feeling sick after a flu shot. Mild fatigue, achiness, or a slight fever can occur, but the CDC notes these side effects are not influenza and typically resolve within a few days. If you develop respiratory symptoms shortly after vaccination, you may have been exposed before the vaccine took effect, caught another respiratory virus, or simply become sick around the same time. Full protection takes about two weeks to develop.

It can be difficult to know what to believe when health information online, and even official recommendations seems to change. Conflicting messages can create confusion. Ask questions, but look for answers from credible, science-based sources and trusted healthcare professionals.

Everyone 6 months and older is recommended to receive an annual flu vaccine. Children who need two doses should receive them at least four weeks apart. Adults 65 and older should receive a high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant vaccine when available. Flu vaccination is also recommended during pregnancy, except for the nasal spray vaccine.

The Houston Health Department offers vaccination services at three locations and participates in the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) program, providing low-cost vaccines for eligible families. Residents can use the TVFC Provider Locator to find participating providers.

September and October remain the preferred months for vaccination. Remember “flu before boo”—get vaccinated before Halloween. Houstonians can protect themselves, their loved ones, and their community by getting vaccinated, staying informed, and staying home when sick.