NORFOLK, Va. — While the rate of respiratory illness across Virginia is low, the Virginia Department of Health says cases are trending upward. That's why health experts, like Dr. Torry Pledger, are reminding the public to get the flu vaccine now so you will be best protected for Thanksgiving and the rest of the holiday season.
“It typically takes about two weeks after getting a vaccine for your immune system to start producing antibodies to fight the vaccine, so you will want to get that vaccine as early as possible,” Pledger said.
Pledger is a family medicine physician with Riverside Health. He said not getting the vaccine could lead to more serious health complications.
"I think we see about 40,000 deaths per year attributed to a flu infection. RSV numbers are just short of that as well," Pledger said. "Typical symptoms of a flu virus: headaches, muscle pain, muscle aches, joint pains. It can also be associated with a sore throat as well. When we think of more severe infections, we're saying a deeper respiratory tract infection or pneumonia.”
He says the vaccine is safe for almost everyone, including those that are pregnant. He also encourages folks to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine and updated RSV vaccine for those who need it.
You can find your nearest location that offers vaccines here.
Knowing the risk that can come with not getting a flu shot, one Virginia Beach woman, Donna Davies, says she plans to roll up her sleeve.
"I'm very susceptible to the flu and pneumonia because of my age, and I've had pneumonia twice in the last five years. So my doctor always tells me to be sure and get a new vaccine," Davies said.
She's not the only one. Steve Fowler, who said he was in town visiting family, said he understands that message firsthand. He noted getting the flu shot also gives him more peace of mind around his family ahead of the holidays.