Early vaccinations are recommended

It’s too early to predict what this year’s flu season might bring — which is is all the more reason for residents to be proactive in protecting themselves and their families by getting vaccinated against this year’s likely strains.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it’s also unknown how severe the coming season may turn out to be. “While flu spreads every year, the timing, severity and length of the season varies from one season to another,” the CDC website says.

All of which is even more reason for residents six months old and older to protect themselves now, says Eric Schneider, epidemiologist for Hays County. 

“The best thing people can do is go and get a shot,” he said, adding that the best time to do that is before people start displaying the classic symptoms. The CDC further explained that “it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body.”

The site goes on to say the CDC recommends getting the shot before the end of October. 

Schneider confirmed that in Central Texas, flu season has begun and just last week, reports of a dozen confirmed cases crossed his desk. “Right now that’s about the normal level of positive flu cases,” he said.

He noted that even if people who get the vaccination go on to develop the flu, it’s highly likely the disease’s symptoms will be less severe and the whole thing will run its course faster. “Getting a flu shot gives your body a chance to fight it off in case you get it,” Schneider said.

As always, authorities stress that those most at risk of complications of the flu should it develop are the young, the elderly and people whose immune systems are weakened or compromised. For those populations the disease “can be deadly,” Schneider said. 

He said of the cases so far this year, most have been the A strain, although that doesn’t mean that will be the dominant strain as the season progresses. “This year’s shot has two flu A strains and two flu B strains,” he said.

To avoid catching the flu, people should “make sure you wash your hands with warm water and soap,” something that is more effective than hand sanitizers — though they should be used when soap and water are not available,” Schneider said. “Cover coughs and sneezes and if you are feeling sick it’s highly recommended you don’t go to work or school to help prevent an outbreak.” 

For those with insurance, flu shots are available in San Marcos at locations including H-E-B stores, all CVS and Walgreens pharmacies along with Wal-Mart, Target and Medspring Urgent Care.

Live Oak Health Partners Community Clinic is one of several places in town where residents without insurance can receive a flu shot. The clinic offers a special rate of $25 for adults 18 and older.