FLU NEWS & NOTES
- Vaccine. The 2012-13 seasonal flu vaccine is available. People need to get vaccinated each year because the vaccine is made to match the types of flu expected to circulate that year and because protection decreases over time.
- Who? Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated now. Children ages 6 months to 8 years who did not get a dose of last year’s vaccine should get two doses this year.
- Flu Season. Officially, flu season runs from October through May. Though most flu illnesses in Texas usually occur in December, January and February, flu is unpredictable and can happen at any time. People should get vaccinated now so that they’re protected for this flu season.
Flu in Texas
The 2012-2013 flu season has ended, but DSHS will continue limited influenza surveillance throughout the summer. Weekly reports are available via the link below. Full flu surveillance will resume in the fall.DSHS has confirmed 18 influenza-associated pediatric deaths in Texas for the 2012-2013 season. There is always some flu circulating, so people should continue to protect themselves and others even during the summer months by covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands frequently and staying home if sick.
Flu season is here. Here’s what you can do.
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STAY INFORMED
TexasFlu.org is the DSHS site for flu information in Texas. Bookmark it. Sign up to receive Twitter and e-mail notices when information is posted. Dial 2-1-1 for flu information and vaccination locations.
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GET vaccinated
Get a flu vaccination now. It’s the best way to protect yourself and others.
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STOP THE SPREAD
Wash your hands frequently. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Stay home if you’re sick. Have a plan to care for sick family members at home.
