With fall in the air, it’s time for flu vaccines
Walk-in Wednesdays at Parkland health centers make access easier
As shorter days and cooler temperatures approach, Parkland Health & Hospital System providers are reminding people of the importance of getting their flu vaccination. The vaccine, say healthcare professionals, can help you make it through flu season, which generally lasts from October through March, without the suffering that comes with the virus.
“Everyone should consider receiving a flu vaccine, but it is especially important that children, seniors and pregnant women be vaccinated,” said Cesar S. Termulo Jr., MD, Senior Lead Staff Physician at Hatcher Station Health Center, one of Parkland’s Community Oriented Primary Care (COPC) health centers. “These groups are more at risk of developing complications from the flu. In addition, children are more likely to spread the virus, especially to older adults in their families.”
Although most people infected by the flu recover, it can be a serious illness, especially for young children and older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all persons aged 6 months and older receive the vaccine each year.
Parkland’s COPCs offer flu vaccines as part of its Walk-In Wednesday’s program. Dallas County residents can receive flu vaccines without making an appointment from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday throughout the fall and winter months. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 214-266-4000.
FluMist will not be an option for the 2017-2018 flu season. Last year the American Academy of Pediatrics withdrew its recommendation of FluMist, based on findings by the CDC that the mist is not as effective as the flu shot.
Major organizations such as the CDC, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine encourage pregnant women to get vaccinated.
“We always hear from some women who fear the vaccine will negatively affect their babies, but research shows otherwise. Flu shots have not been shown to cause harm to mothers or their unborn children,” Dr. Termulo said. “Some studies have shown there are health benefits for unborn babies and those benefits continue for up to six months.”
People with certain preexisting conditions are at higher risk for flu complications, including those with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, HIV infection, cancer, history of stroke and adults 65 and older, Dr. Termulo said.
Health experts say following a few simple steps could help reduce the risk of catching the flu:
• Keep your distance from others who are sick
• Stay home when you are sick to avoid passing the virus to others
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Clean your hands often using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Get plenty of sleep and exercise
• Manage your stress
• Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food
Parkland accepts insurance, including Medicaid/Chip and Medicare. All children will be assessed to determine if they are eligible for the Texas Vaccines for Children's immunization program. Patients who are enrolled in the Parkland Financial Assistance (PFA) program can get their vaccines covered at no or low cost. PFA members will be responsible for their payment dependent on the PFA level. For persons without health insurance, Parkland can provide financial screening.
To find the Parkland COPC health center nearest you, visit www.parklandhospital.com/locations
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