Get Vaccinated to Protect Yourself and Our Community this Flu Season

By Ramesh Mutyala, MD 

Shortening days and school bells are signs that autumn has arrived. Unfortunately, another sign of the season is increased flu activity. Flu season can last from autumn to as late as May, peaking between December and February. It often results in millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths. By getting vaccinated against the flu, we can help minimize our risk and better protect our health and the health of all those around us.   

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and can cause mild to severe illness and even lead to death in certain situations. Although everyone can get the flu, some individuals are at greater risk of developing complications from these viruses, including children younger than five years old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, and those with certain medical conditions like asthma, heart disease and blood disorders.   

One of the essential ways we’re making communities healthier is making sure that you are aware of the ways you can protect yourself, your family and our community from preventable diseases like the flu and even speed up your recovery, if you do become ill.  

First – and most importantly – get vaccinated. Flu vaccination is the single-best way to protect yourself and others from influenza viruses. While it is still possible to contract the flu after being vaccinated, studies show that vaccinations can make your illness less severe if you do get sick. Getting vaccinated also affords you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re doing everything you can to protect yourself against the flu.   

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months and older, with any age-appropriate flu vaccine. If you are considering a nasal spray flu vaccine, it is important to know that this option is approved by the CDC for use in non-pregnant individuals, ages two through 49, and that there is a precaution against this option for those with certain underlying medical conditions. Check with your healthcare provider regarding which flu vaccination method may work best for you.  

Getting vaccinated is simple: visit the Public Health Department, a walk-in clinic or pharmacy, or your provider’s office. If you don’t have a primary care provider, visit our website and browse our Provider Finder or call 252-399-8040. Flu vaccines can take approximately two weeks to become fully effective, so you should plan to receive your flu vaccine before flu activity begins. A good rule of thumb is to get vaccinated no later than the end of October.  

In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several other ways you can protect yourself and your family, and help prevent the spread of flu and other infections during flu season and year-round, including: 

• Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds, or using a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol-based 

• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth 

• Avoiding sharing food, cups or eating utensils 

• Regularly disinfecting your home and belongings, such as doorknobs, light switches, children’s toys and play areas 

• Staying home from school or work if you are sick to prevent the spread of germs 

• Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow, and NOT your bare hands  

• Calling your primary care provider with any questions. 

Many of the most common flu symptoms are consistent with COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, so testing may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis. Visit your healthcare provider right away if you or someone you know experiences symptoms including coughing, sore throat, fever or other upper respiratory symptoms. When detected early, prescription antiviral drugs can often help treat the illness and shorten the time you are sick. Early detection is especially important for young children, seniors, pregnant women and people with certain chronic health issues like asthma, diabetes, heart and lung disease. 

If you do test positive for the flu, stay home (or keep your child home) for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone, except to seek medical care. 

Dr. Mutyala is Wilson Medical Center’s Chief Medical Officer. 

A version of this article appeared in The Wilson Times on September 11, 2026