Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory illness that affects everyone differently, causing an inconvenience for some while bringing on serious complications for others.
Dr. Jason Bowling, an infectious disease specialist with University Health and UT Health San Antonio, said for some people, it’s more than a nuisance disease. “Every year there are people who die from the flu. It’s a serious illness and even young people can get critically ill with influenza,” he said.
Flu-Related Deaths on the Rise
Flu season typically occurs between October and May. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the 2024-2025 flu season had not only the highest hospitalization rate since the 2010-2011 season, but it was also the highest for pediatric-related deaths.
Dr. Bowling says there was a total of 279 pediatric deaths and of those, 90% of the children were unvaccinated.
People at Increased Risk for Complications
Some people are more susceptible to getting extremely sick from coming in contact with an influenza virus.
These are some of the major groups identified as being at an increased risk for developing complications of the flu:
- Children younger than 2 years old
- Those 65 and older
- Nursing home and long-term care facility residents
- Pregnant women and women with a two-week old or younger
- Those with cancer, asthma or blood disorders
- People with weakened immune systems
- Children with neurological conditions
- Those with preexisting chronic illnesses
Typical Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe. The most common flu symptoms include:
- Fever, chills
- Cough, sore throat, runny nose
- Muscle, body or headaches
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Feeling tired
Some Symptoms Require Immediate Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, persistent pain in the chest or stomach, or have persistent dizziness/confusion. This also applies if you have a seizure, stop urinating, experience severe muscle pain or weakness, have a fever or cough that improves but then then worsens, or your existing medical condition gets worse due to the flu.
How You Can Prevent the Flu
While catching the flu is sometimes inevitable, Dr. Bowling says there are three things you can do to prevent having a severe case of influenza:
- Get vaccinated – the earlier in the season the better
- Stop the spread of germs – avoid touching your face and frequently wash your hands
- Treat flu illness early – take antiviral medications
Importance of the Flu Vaccine
University Health’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Bryan Alsip advises, “Getting a flu shot is a smart thing to do. It’s the best protection against becoming ill with influenza and to prevent others from getting the flu, particularly those who cannot receive the vaccine due to a medical contraindication.”
Dr. Alsip emphasizes that those younger than six months are especially vulnerable to influenza, making it more important for anyone who handles a baby to make the time to get vaccinated.
“When you get a flu shot, you play a key role in helping to minimize your own risk of getting the flu while also helping to protect those around you,” he said.
Avoid Spreading Germs
If you have the flu, prevent spreading germs to family members and others nearby by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Stay home from work and other activities so you won’t infect others.
It’s also important to wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds.
Start Treatment Early
Keep in mind that antiviral drugs are most effective on the flu when they’re used within two days of getting sick. Antiviral drugs are not the same as antibiotics. Ask for a prescription for this type of medicine to help you recover more quickly.
Vaccinations at University Health
Schedule an appointment for your flu shot at any of our health centers located throughout San Antonio.
Our pharmacy locations also have walk-in hours for vaccinations such as the flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
You can also schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to get you and your family’s vaccinations up to date.
