Austinites Reminded To Get Flu Shots Amid 'Severe Wave'

AUSTIN, TX — Facing a "severe wave of flu illnesses" throughout the county this season, Austin Public Health officials on Tuesday reiterated their call for residents to get vaccinated against the seasonal malady.

“While flu activity is already high, it typically won’t peak until January or February, and significant activity can occur as late as May,” health officials wrote in a press release. “People who get the flu vaccine and still get sick can expect a milder illness — and a lower risk of pneumonia, hospitalization or death.”

So far this year, statistics are grim. The Texas Department of State Health Services previously reported the death of one child due to the illness since the start of the influenza season began on Sept. 29. That could be just the tip of the iceberg, as reporting of flu cases isn't required.

Residents might have the flu if they experience some or all of these symptoms: chills or fever, cough, runny or congested nasal passages, sore throat, muscle aches, a headache or severe fatigue.

On their website, local health officials provided a primer on how to get vaccinated:

Flu shots

Flu shots are available at Shots for Tots/Big Shots clinics for children who are uninsured or Medicaid recipients, and for uninsured adults. Cost of the flu vaccine is $25 for adults, $10 for children, and free for children with Medicaid. No one will be denied services if they are unable to pay. Appointments are needed at a clinic: call 512-972-5520.

Insured residenst also can visit VaccineFinder.org to find the nearest location to get a flu shot.

Services

All services are available to children who are uninsured or Medicaid recipients. Services are also available to uninsured adults.
Services are by appointment only. Call 512-972-5520 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to make an appointment.

Clinic Locations

• Far South Austin clinic, 405 West Stassney, Austin, 78745
• North Austin St. John clinic, 7500 Blessing Avenue, Austin, 78752

Clinic Schedules

Shots for Tots and Big Shots Clinic Schedule in English
Shots for Tots and Big Shots Clinic Schedule in Spanish

Clinic Fees

Children: $10 per dose of vaccine. Adults: $25 per dose of vaccine. Shot Records: $5. No one is refused services if they are unable to pay.

Shots for Tots for Children

Requirements for Children's Immunizations at Texas Department of State Health Services.

• Child-Care immunization requirements for children under the age of five.
• School immunization requirements for students K-12.

How to avoid getting sick

Austin Public Health shared these common tips to prevent or at least stop the spread of illness:

• Wash your hands often, and avoid touching your face.
• When sneezing or coughing, do so into a bent elbow.
• The flu is quite contagious, so it's advisable for afflicted people not to go to work or school if they already have symptoms.
• It's advised that residents seek medical treatment within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
• Patients should also seek advice on treatment for others in the household who may have been exposed in order to ameliorate further outbreak.