The Importance of Flu Vaccination: Protecting Yourself and Others This Season

Staying protected during flu season starts with something as simple as getting vaccinated. While no vaccine can offer 100% protection, the flu shot significantly lowers your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications of the flu — while also helping protect those around you and the community as a whole. At Brookridge Internal Medicine Associates, P.A., board-certified physician Dr. Brenda Vozza and our caring team provide annual flu vaccination services to help Longview, TX patients and their families stay healthy all season long.

Do you really need a flu shot?

Beyond being physically uncomfortable and disruptive to your everyday life, the flu may lead to severe health complications — particularly for higher-risk groups, like seniors, children, and those with chronic conditions. Getting a flu shot every year significantly lowers these risks and offers added protection to you and those around you. Some of the primary benefits of a flu shot include:

• Reduce your risk of severe flu symptoms and hospitalization
• Protect vulnerable members of your community
• Avoid flu-related complications, such as pneumonia
• Shorten recovery time if you do catch the flu

Even if you still get the flu after being vaccinated, the shot can help keep symptoms mild and manageable, preventing life-threatening complications.

When is the right time to get the flu shot?

The best time to get a flu shot is before flu season begins, which is typically in September or October. However, it's never too late to prioritize your health. Getting the flu shot at any point during flu season will still provide valuable protection, as flu viruses continue to circulate for several months.

Is it too late to get the flu shot in December?

One common question during flu season is whether getting vaccinated later in the year — like in December — still offers protection. The answer is yes. While it's ideal to get the flu shot in early fall, December is not too late. Flu activity typically peaks between December and February but can extend into spring. Getting vaccinated, even midseason, ensures your body has some level of protection to fight the flu virus and minimize symptoms.

What other vaccines do I need besides the flu shot?

In addition to the flu vaccine, Brookridge Internal Medicine Associates, P.A. offers a full range of immunizations to help protect against various illnesses. These include:

• Hepatitis B
• COVID-19
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV vaccine by AREXVY)
• Pneumococcal 23
• Prevnar 20®

These vaccines help safeguard your long-term health, ensuring protection from preventable diseases that can impact individuals of all ages. If you have questions about which vaccinations or immunizations may be beneficial for you or your family, don't hesitate to ask.

Stay healthy this season with family flu shots in Longview, TX

Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community by prioritizing your flu shot this season. At Brookridge Internal Medicine Associates, P.A., Dr. Brenda Vozza and our team are committed to providing flu vaccinations and a wide range of immunizations to help keep you and your family healthy year-round. Schedule your flu shot today to ensure you're ready for whatever this season brings.