Harris County Public Health Urges Residents to Get Flu Vaccine in Time for the Holidays
With holiday season in full swing, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is urging residents to take preventive measures against the flu and other respiratory viruses by getting their annual flu vaccine. Although current trends in Texas and Harris County show that flu cases remain relatively low compared to previous seasons, health experts stress that flu viruses are constantly evolving, making it essential to get vaccinated each year to help protect yourself and your loved ones during the holidays.
Harris County Public Health officials shared that, "flu viruses change regularly, so we must get an annual flu vaccine to keep the threat low as we go into the new year with cheer." With holiday parties, family gatherings, and seasonal shopping taking place throughout the month of December and into the New Year, residents may be at a higher risk of exposure to infection. Knowing the symptoms of respiratory viruses can help individuals recognize the signs early, which include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
While not everyone with the flu will have a fever, the symptoms are often similar to those of other respiratory illnesses. HCPH strongly recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine, as it remains one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus.
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Special attention should be given to certain groups at higher risk for severe flu complications, including pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic lung disease. These groups are more vulnerable to developing serious complications from the flu.
"Getting vaccinated is also especially important for pregnant women, the elderly, and anyone with certain medical conditions," said HCPH officials. "It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop in your body after getting the shot, so schedule an appointment immediately."
HCPH also emphasizes that it is safe to receive other seasonal vaccines, such as COVID-19 or RSV shots, at the same time as the flu vaccine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these vaccines can be administered together without any issues.
To make it easier for Harris County residents to access the flu vaccine, HCPH offers several options for vaccination. You can schedule your flu and COVID-19 vaccine by calling 832-927-7350 or visiting the Harris County Public Health website at www.hcphtx.org. Vaccines are free for eligible individuals. Additionally, the public can visit www.vaccines.gov or www.texasflu.org for more information on vaccine availability.
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Did You Know? The CDC estimates that between 2010 and 2023,
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- If you or your child feel sick, seek guidance from a medical professional promptly and stay home for at least 24 hours after a fever ends without the use of fever-reducing medications.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and encourage others to do the same.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like desks, doorknobs, keyboards, and phones.
By taking these simple steps and getting the flu vaccine, Harris County residents can reduce their risk of illness and help protect those around them while enjoying a healthy and safe holiday season.
For more information on scheduling a vaccine, visit www.hcphtx.org or call 832-927-7350. Stay healthy, and don’t let the flu ruin your holiday celebrations!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
