Flu shots advised before cases spike

If you haven’t yet, it’s time to get a flu shot.

In the last two months of 2018, 855 Hays County residents tested positive for influenza, according to Eric Schneider, the county’s epidemiologist. That compares to 816 in the last two months of 2017.

However, Schneider pointed out, last January there was an “immense jump” in positive flu tests to 1,618. It’s unknown if that will recur this year but Schneider said the season is “definitely in full swing” here.

“We are mainly seeing a strain of Flu A, which was included in this year’s flu shot,” he said. “However, just because a person received their flu shot does not mean they cannot contract the flu.”

Schneider said the same old common sense precautions continue to apply. “I am encouraging everyone to routinely wash their hands with soap and water, cover their sneezes, and most importantly, stay home when they are feeling symptoms of the flu. Going to work or school while possibly contagious can quickly lead to a flu outbreak.

Flu shots are available at the Live Oak Health Partners Community Clinic at 401-A Broadway (512-805-5650) and through the offices of private physicians, as well as at many local pharmacies. They will also be available on Jan. 26 during the San Marcos CISD Health Fair at San Marcos High School.

“There will be multiple vendors at this event with information about a wide array of health topics.”

Flu shots for children under the age of 18 will be available that day between 7 and 11 a.m. 

Schneider noted that there is a limited amount of doses, “so it will be first come, first served.”