With the flu season fast approaching, doctors across Oklahoma are urging residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Early immunization, they say, offers the best protection against a virus that typically sends between 2,000 and 4,000 Oklahomans to the hospital each year and can claim hundreds of lives.
Why act now?
“I am cautiously optimistic that we will have a relatively more mild year this year,” said Dr. Douglas Drevets, chief of infectious diseases at OU Health. While he hopes for a milder season, Dr. Drevets warned that the flu virus can mutate, which could make this year’s flu shot less effective than hoped.
He stressed that waiting until symptoms appear can mean missing the vaccine’s full benefit. “And if you don’t have somebody pushing you to do that, then it may slip off your calendar until we’re already in the middle of an epidemic,” he added.
Combine protection
Dr. Drevets also recommended that Oklahomans receive flu, COVID‑19, and RSV vaccines together, noting that all three can be administered safely at the same appointment. “There is some evidence to suggest that the flu vaccine is most effective in the first two to three months after you get it,” he explained, encouraging people to schedule their shots well before Thanksgiving.
Watch for warning signs
For those who do fall ill, Dr. Drevets advised watching for shortness of breath or chest pain—signs that may indicate a more serious complication requiring medical attention.
How to get vaccinated
Flu shots are widely available at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and community health clinics throughout the state. Many locations now offer walk‑in appointments, and several employers are providing on‑site vaccination clinics for their staff.
Parents are especially encouraged to protect their children, who are at higher risk for severe flu complications. The Oklahoma Department of Health continues to promote school‑based vaccination programs, making it easier for families to stay on schedule.
Community impact
Getting vaccinated not only shields individuals but also helps keep hospitals from becoming overwhelmed during the peak months of October through February. By reducing the number of severe cases, the community can maintain essential services for all residents.
Oklahoma’s health officials remain hopeful that a proactive approach—early vaccination, combined immunizations, and vigilant monitoring of symptoms—will lead to a healthier, safer flu season for families across the state.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
