The State of Texas’ health experts have urged Texans to get inoculations for the flu with the Thanksgiving holiday around the corner, according to a report from Austin ABC affiliate KVUE.
KVUE reported that flu season in the Lone Star State began earlier than expected, which prompted Monday’s announcement from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Dr. Jennifer Shuford, the department’s interim head, told the station that vaccination continues to serve as the public’s best defense against severe illness from flu.
“We recommend that everyone six months and older receive their flu vaccine each year,” Shuford said, according to KVUE. “And it’s especially important to get vaccinated now since it takes the body two weeks after vaccination to fully produce antibodies to fight flu.”
The station reported that reports from all across Texas in regard to more influenza-like illness occurring earlier than expected are consistent with those nationwide yet this season’s vaccines are capable of preventing infections from the current strain.
Eligible Texans are urged to get their updated COVID-19 booster shot in addition to their flu shot, per KVUE.
According to the station, health experts advise those who experience flu-like symptoms or feel like they’re under the weather to stay home and contact their primary care provider (PCP).
In order to curb the spread of flu, people must wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, as well as covering their face when coughing or sneezing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on its website that children are the most susceptible to flu while individuals ages 65 and older are less likely to catch it.