Though the CDC notes that flu season peaks in February each year and lasts through March, Texans have experienced a milder flu season in 2022. This, however, does not mean that no flu cases have been detected; in fact, the state was considered a flu hot spot at one point early this year by the CDC. With folks huddling inside to stay warm as this week’s winter storm blows across Texas, germs have a chance to spread. It is not too late for Texans to get a flu shot for best protection as we head into the final month of flu season, which is also a travel month for some with Spring Break. The CDC recommends the flu vaccine for those ages 6 months and older.

The flu has some similar symptoms to COVID-19, and both can cause respiratory infections and hospitalization. It is important to visit a doctor if one falls ill. To avoid such a scenario, folks can get their immunizations. People need to know, as vaccine fatigued as they may be, that one shot is not a substitute for the other; to avoid a double infection, individuals need both vaccines.

The Harris Poll released results of an October survey of more than 2,000 Americans and found that 26% mistakenly thought the COVID vaccine would also protect them from the flu. On the flip side, 23% thought the flu vaccine would also protect them from COVID. In order to be fully protected from both viruses, people should be fully vaccinated and boosted with COVID-19 vaccines and receive a flu shot. Remember, people still get sick, and thousands still die each year from the flu. The CDC estimates that flu has resulted in 9 million — 41 million illnesses, 140,000 — 710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 — 52,000 deaths annually between 2010 and 2020.