Texas DSHS recommends flu shots before Thanksgiving

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Department of Health (DSHS) recommends everyone get the flu shot before Thanksgiving.

The DSHS has been monitoring flu season across Texas as it came several weeks earlier than predicted this year. Instead, the DSHS encourages everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against the flu to do so before Thanksgiving to protect themselves and their family members.

“Vaccination remains our best defense against serious influenza illnesses, particularly for more vulnerable populations such as older adults, very young children, those with chronic health conditions, and pregnant women,” said Dr. Jennifer Shuford, interim commissioner of the DSHS. “That’s why we recommend that everyone six months and older get their flu shot every year. And getting vaccinated now is especially important because it takes the body two weeks after vaccination to fully produce antibodies against the flu.”

Reports from across the state confirm that more flu-like illnesses have emerged earlier than in recent flu seasons, which is also consistent with reports from across the country. The flu vaccines for the 2022-23 season have changed significantly since last season, better protecting people from the current strain.

Anyone feeling ill or having flu-like symptoms should stay home and contact their primary health care provider, who can offer antiviral treatments to relieve symptoms in those at higher risk, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

Another way to slow the spread of the flu is to regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, cover your face when you cough or sneeze, and stay home if you are unwell.

Eligible Texans can also receive their updated COVID-19 booster shot with their flu shot. The updated COVID-19 booster protects against the Omicron variants that cause the majority of COVID-19 illnesses in Texas, according to DSHS data.

For more information about the vaccinations or to find out where to get flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, or both, visit the DSHS website.

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