Flu Shots In Houston Texas

Health Experts Urge Texans To Get Vaccinated Ahead Of Flu Season

The Texas Medical Association is urging people to get flu shots due to concerns flu season could be worse this year with fewer people masking and crowds gathering again.

Texas medical experts are warning about a resurgence of influenza this winter after a relatively dormant year during the coronavirus pandemic.

Flu is overdue right now,” said Dr. Donald Murphey, an Austin pediatric infectious disease specialist and chair of the Texas Medical Association Council on Science and Public Health.

“We should be concerned about flu returning. Flu is here every year consistently and last year, with mitigation for COVID, we didnt have a flu season at all .

Murphey explained this year’s flu season could even be worse than usual as an overall decline in coronavirus cases is expected to lead to an increase in public gatherings during the holidays with fewer people wearing masks.

Viruses dont stay away for very long. They are looking for susceptible hosts to spread in and we should have a normal flu season , Murphey said. We may even have a worse than normal flu season .

The flu poses the most serious risk to Texas’ youngest and oldest residents, as well as people with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma or cancer. According to TMA, most flu-related hospitalizations and up to 85% of flu-related deaths occur in people over 65 years old.

Copyright 2021 The Texas Newsroom.

Who Needs The Flu Shot

In general, everyone aged six months and older needs the flu shot. Its especially important for people at risk of developing serious health complications from an infection, including:

• Older adults
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic health conditions

Though most people benefit from getting the flu shot, it may not be recommended if you have an egg allergy or had a bad reaction to a previous flu shot.

Your provider determines if youre not a good candidate for the flu shot and can talk to you about other ways you can protect yourself from getting sick.

Get A Flu Shot For Others

Why do you need a flu shot? Flu shots are an essential part of your annual healthcare. This is true even if you are very healthy. Not only do they protect you, but also everyone around you. When everyone who is able to get a flu shot is vaccinated, they are less likely to get others sick. If you may be around infants who are too young to be vaccinated, your flu shot can help protect them. It can also help protect the elderly, and people who are immunocompromised.

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Protect Yourself & Your Family From The Flu Get Vaccinated Todayour Urgent Care Clinic Offers Seasonal Flu Shots To The Greater Houston Tx Area

In general, flu season begins in late fall, peaks mid-winter, and continues through early spring. Getting your flu shot before the season is in full swing can help prevent you and your family from getting sick. Even a late flu shot offers protection from this unwanted illness. In the Dickinson and Houston, TX areas, visit St. Elizabeth Urgent Care for your flu shot!

• Just Walk In! No Appointment Necessary!
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Other Important Vaccinations And Immunizations

Along with receiving a yearly flu shot, there are several other vaccinations thatcan help to prevent various infections.

These immunizations include:

While there are more vaccinations available and every individual has their ownvaccination schedule, the above, along with a flu shot, are important forones health. Hepatitis is a fairly serious infection to the liver thatcan cause extreme fatigue, nausea and stomach pain. Fortunately, both hepatitisA and B are easily prevented by vaccination.

While hepatitis A and B can typically be fought off and a full recovery can bemade, it is best to receive a vaccination and prevent their onset altogether.

Additionally, measles, mumps and rubella can be even more of a concern thenhepatitis especially for young children. Subsequently, it is crucial to receivea vaccination for these conditions, referred to as the MMR vaccine, in order toprevent developing them.

Tetanus is also a common vaccination and for good reason. Tetanus is a bacterialinfection that can cause painful muscle spasms and lead to death that spreadsthrough contact with a contaminated object. As such, it can happen out ofnowhere and be extremely difficult to treat without a vaccination.

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Flu Activity Currently Is High Or Very High In Eight States Or Us Territories So Far Two Children Have Died

HOUSTON, TX Last year, the influenza virus took a season off largely due to COVID-19 mitigation measures. School closures, social distancing, mask-wearing and canceled travel all contributed to an unusually mild flu season in Texas and across the country.

This year, it’s likely we won’t get so lucky.

Influenza activity in the United States is increasing, though the amount varies by region, according to data compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalizations are rising and, so far, two pediatric deaths have been recorded, according to CDC data.

Protect And Serve By Getting A Flu Shot

Kelsey Seybold Staff

The flu season is about to kick into full swing. As law enforcement officials, you spend a lot of time in the community, which means youre likely to come into contact with the flu. Take a minute to think of all the people and surfaces you come into contact with in just one shift. If this isnt enough reason for you to get a flu shot, here are others.

This Years Vaccine Is a Good Match

Its difficult to predict the future of viruses from year to year, but the good news is that officials can normally tell what will circulate here in the Northern Hemisphere by looking at what has circulated during the winter in the Southern Hemisphere. So far, it looks like this years vaccine is going to be a good match. The flu virus hasnt changed much since April when decisions were being made on what to include in the new vaccine, so its likely to be 70-80 percent effective.

There Are Vaccination Options

There are three vaccine delivery options to choose from that contain protection against three strains two for influenza A and one for influenza B:

• The regular flu shot, of course.
• Intradermal, which uses shorter needles to administer vaccine just under the skin
• The high-dose vaccine which is available for those 65 and older and has four times the concentration than the regular vaccine for a better immune response.

Protect Yourself and the Public

Protect Your Loved Ones

People at High Risk for Flu-Related Complications

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When Should I Get The Flu Shot

In the United States, flu season begins in October and typically lasts through March. It takes your body about two weeks to build up immunity against the flu. You should get your flu shot before the start of the flu season.

Its recommended that you get your flu shot before the end of October, so you get the most protection. However, you may still benefit from the vaccination even if you wait until February or later to get it.

Receive Your Flu Shot At Lifeline Urgent Care In Houston Tx

Have you had your annual flu shot yet? If not, dont continue to leave yourself vulnerable to the seasonal influenza virus , which affects up to 20 percent of the American population every year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Lifeline Urgent Care is proud to provide flu shots on a walk-in basis at our sleek and modern centers in Houston, Texas. Visit us today! We offer extended hours seven days a week and never require appointments.

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If You Need A Flu Shot Call Our Family Urgent Care Clinic Nearest You

At St. Elizabeth Urgent Care, we aim to provide you with efficient and comfortable services that ensure you get your flu shot and are protected this upcoming season. We offer two locations in Dickinson and Jersey Village, and welcome patients throughout the greater Houston, TX area. Contact our family urgent care clinic closest to you for more information or to discuss your visit.

Will Flu Shots Make Me Sick

You may experience some side effects after getting the flu shot. In most cases, the side effects include pain, swelling, and warmth at the site of the injection.

However, some people may also experience headaches, muscle aches, or a mild fever after their injection. These symptoms indicate your body is building up the antibodies needed to help you fight off the influenza virus.

Its more important than ever that you take the necessary steps to protect yourself from getting the flu. Call Pierre Physician Group or book your flu shot online today.

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What Are Flu Shots

The flu shot or flu vaccine is an injection that offers protection against three or four of the most common strains of influenza during the upcoming flu season.

Influenza is a family of highly contagious viruses that cause the flu, which is a disease that affects the respiratory system. Though flu symptoms range from mild to severe, in some cases, the infection may lead to respiratory failure or death.

Flu shots help your body build-up antibodies against the virus. Though it may not prevent you from catching the flu virus and getting sick, your annual flu shot may lessen the severity of your symptoms and the duration of your infection.

Whats The Difference Between A Cold And Flu

The common cold and flu are both contagious viral infections of the respiratory tract. Although the symptoms can be similar, the flu is much worse. A cold may drag you down a bit, but the flu can make you shudder at the very thought of getting out of bed.

Congestion, sore throat, and sneezing are common with colds. Both cold and flu bring coughing, headache, and chest discomfort. With the flu, though, you are likely to run a high fever for several days and have headaches, myalgia, fatigue, and weakness. Usually, complications from colds are relatively minor, but a severe case of flu can lead to a life-threatening illness such as pneumonia.

More than 100 types of cold viruses are known, and new strains of flu evolve every few years. Since both diseases are viral, antibiotics cannot conquer cold or flu. Remember: Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

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What To Do If You Experience Adverse Effects

If you start to notice unusual side effects, severe pain, muscle weakness, or tingling sensations after receiving your flu shot, seek medical attention right away. Most conditions caused by flu vaccines are best treated quickly to ensure that they do not get worse. Be sure to tell your doctor all the details of when, where, and how long ago you received the flu shot.

Depending on your diagnosis and condition, you may be eligible to seek compensation by filing a claim with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. During a free consultation with our Houston vaccine injury attorneys, you can tell your story and find out whether your injuries are grounds for a lawsuit.

The Greenwood Law Firm looks forward to helping you overcome this experience by fighting hard to protect your rights. We have decades of combined experience representing the injured victims of flu vaccines.

Houston Health Department Urges People To Get Flu Shot Now

HOUSTON – The Houston Health Department encourages everyone ages six months and older to protect themselves, their family and community by getting a flu shot now.

Flu outbreaks can occur as early as October and last as late as May.

The protection offered by flu shots is more important than ever, not just for Houstonians but also for our local healthcare systems, said Dr. David Persse, chief medical officer for the City of Houston. COVID-19 has stressed area hospitals for weeks. When people receive their flu shots, they will protect themselves and at the same time reduce the demand that our already burden hospitals are likely to face from the upcoming rise in patients with flu-related complications during the flu season.

The health department on Monday began offering flu shots at its health centers to uninsured and underinsured people on a sliding scale that ranges from free to $15.

To find the nearest health center and set a flu shot appointment, people can call 832-393-5427. Health center locations and hours of operation are also available at HoustonHealth.org or through the City of Houstons 311 Help and Info line.

People can visit their doctor, neighborhood pharmacy or local health department to get a flu shot. Many grocery stores also offer the vaccine.

People can receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same timein different armsduring a visit to their medical provider.

In addition to vaccination, people can help stop the spread of the flu and other illness by:

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Internal Medicine Located In Houston Tx

Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from catching the flu. Everyone six months and older should consider getting the vaccination. Mariette Pierre, MD, and the health care providers at Pierre Physician Group in Houston, Texas, offer flu shots and can talk to you about the vaccine and how it may prevent you from catching the flu this season. To schedule your flu shot, call the office, or request an appointment online today.

How Much Do Flu Shots Cost At Pharmacies

If youre paying out of pocket, you may want to visit a pharmacy to get your flu vaccine. Many offer appointments or walk-in flu-vaccine clinics. Heres a sample of various flu vaccines and their prices at four common pharmacies. Prices and vaccine offerings may vary by location:

Pricing reflects Costco Member Prescription Program Discount Card, which may vary by location.

If you must pay out of pocket for your flu vaccine, GoodRx may help you save money at participating pharmacies in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program includes the vaccine administration fee, and prices are as low as $25 for those under age 65 and $62 for those over age 65.

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You’ve Got A Lot Of Options If You’re Looking To Get A Flu Shot In Houston

HOUSTON, TX It’s flu shot season and there are a number of places in Houston where you can get a flu shot. Below is an alphabetical list of 50 places where you can get a flu shot today. The prices are for people who do not have health insurance. If you have insurance, the cost of the flu shot is covered by most insurance plans.

Proactive And Preventive Care

Children over the age of six months and under the age of four should be properlyvaccinated. Adults over the age of 50 should stay properly vaccinated and ensurethey receive their annual flu shot, as they may not be able to fight offinfluenza as effectively as when they were younger. Another group at high riskof getting an infection are caregivers who work with sick patients routinely.

Also, caregivers who work with patients under the age of four or over the age of50 need to be sure to receive a yearly flu shot themselves, as well as any otherimmunizations that they may need. Nursing home residents or individuals whospend an above average amount of time in a hospital should be extra cautious andensure that they receive their yearly flu vaccination.

FAQ

Is it a problem if I dont have a copy of my vaccination record?

While it is important to keep details of any vaccinations you have received over theyears, it is not completely necessary. Retaining detailed immunization records isimportant because tracking down the records elsewhere can be a real challenge. However,you can, in most cases, track down vaccination history by checking with you or yourchilds doctor, the state health department and/or your or your childsschools.

What happens if I am not vaccinated or my child is not vaccinated?

While they help with prevention do vaccinations help with treatment?

What is The Flu Season?

Will I get sick from a flu shot?

What vaccinations Require a Booster Shot?

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Pharmacy Convenience And Care

At CVS Pharmacy® & Drug Store, you donât have to leave your vehicle to get your prescription filled. Our drive-thru pharmacy allows you to stay in your car and still get the dedicated service you deserve. Simply drop off your prescription, run your errands and come back to pick up your medication. Our licensed pharmacist will be waiting to answer any questions you may have regarding your prescription. Go online or download our app to receive even more benefits, including:

• Order your refills

• Set up a personal cvs.com account

• Check your medication profile

If you are out of refills, weâll contact your physician for you and request more. We accept a host of insurances to maximize savings on your prescriptions.

Free Flu Shots Through Clinics Community Organizations And Public Health Departments

Many health departments and free clinics offer low-cost or free flu shots across the U.S. Here are a few examples:

• Most colleges offer free flu shots for their students. Check on your schools website to confirm.

• Military veterans enrolled in health care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs can get a flu shot at their nearest VA health care facility. This program does not apply to family members of veterans.

• Many county health departments offer free, or discounted, flu vaccinations during flu season. Examples include:

• The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, in partnership with select LA County Libraries, will offer free flu shots through November.

• The San Francisco Health Department offers convenient locations for members of the public to easily access free or low-cost flu vaccines.

• The Houston Health Department offers flu shots to uninsured and underinsured people on a sliding scale that ranges from free to $15.

Cant find a location near you on this list? Watch for announcements on your local news station or in your local newspaper or search online for free flu shots in your area or through your citys health department.

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