Flu on the Rise in Comal County
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National Influenza Vaccination Week begins Dec. 2, and the Comal County Office of Public Health reminds residents that it still has flu shots are still available.
Cases of influenza have begun to rise, with more than 40 confirmed cases in Comal County over a three-week period ending Nov. 17, compared with 19 the previous three weeks.
“Although flu season has started, there’s still time to get your vaccine and protect yourself and your family this winter,” said Director of Public Health Cheryl Fraser.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention established National Influenza Vaccination Week in 2005 to raise awareness about the importance of flu vaccination, even after the end of November.
The peak of last year’s flu season occurred in January and February, Fraser said, with more than 400 cases of flu or flu-like symptoms being reported in Comal County each week during a particularly active season.
“An annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the flu,” she said. “The CDC recommends that everyone over six-months-old receive a flu shot from a licensed medical professional.”
The Office of Public Health accepts Medicaid and Community First CHIP for children age 18 and younger and Blue Cross Blue Shield for all ages. The cost of a shot for someone without insurance coverage is just $35.
Residents can call 830-221-1150 to make an appointment, but walk-ins are welcome. The office is open from 8 a.m. to noon and 1-5 p.m. at 1297 Church Hill Drive, New Braunfels.
