Texas Influenza Awareness Day is today, and DSHS recommends Texans get vaccinated against flu as soon as possible to protect themselves and their families from illness. Because the body takes about two weeks to make flu antibodies after getting a flu shot, early vaccination is critical as flu cases traditionally begin to rise this time of year.

“We recommend everyone ages six months and older get a flu shot as soon as possible,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH. “Flu illness spreads rapidly through our communities, and unfortunately small children and older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions often suffer the most severe effects. The time is now to protect yourself and your family from flu illness.”

People with flu are most contagious in the first three days of their illness. Virus is spread through droplets that people with flu make when they talk, cough or sneeze. Those infected may begin showing symptoms quickly, and many will experience fever and/or chills, muscle aches, cough and sore throat, fatigue, and headaches. Children may more often experience vomiting and diarrhea during flu illness.

DSHS advises those with symptoms of flu to stay at home and avoid contact with other people, especially those who might be at greater risk of serious flu illness. Those in high-risk groups with flu symptoms should contact their physicians immediately as antiviral treatments are available but are most effective when prescribed soon after symptom onset. These drugs can reduce flu symptoms faster and may also prevent flu illness complications.

It is also recommended those with flu not visit the emergency room if their symptoms remain mild. If for 24 hours they remain fever free and symptoms improve overall, they may return to normal activities.