Do I Need the Flu Shot If I Am Healthy?

Many people in South Texas skip the flu shot each year because they feel healthy and rarely get sick. While good health is important, it does not fully protect you from the flu or from spreading it to others in your home, workplace, or community.

Understanding who benefits from the flu vaccine and where to get it can help you make an informed decision this flu season.

Can Healthy People Get the Flu?

Yes. Even healthy adults can get the flu. The virus spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and close contact, especially in schools, offices, and crowded public spaces.

Healthy individuals may experience milder symptoms, but they can still miss work, feel unwell for several days, and spread the virus to children, older adults, or people with chronic medical conditions.

What the Flu Shot Helps Prevent

The flu vaccine helps your immune system recognize and respond to common flu strains expected during the season. While it does not guarantee complete protection, it can:

• Lower your risk of getting the flu

• Reduce the severity of symptoms if you become sick

• Decrease the risk of flu-related complications

• Help reduce the spread of illness in the community

Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for flu prevention.

Who Should Consider the Flu Shot?

The flu vaccine is recommended for most people six months of age and older. It is especially important for:

• Adults age 65 and older

• Children under 5 years old

• Pregnant individuals

• Patients with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems

• Anyone who lives with or cares for high-risk individuals

Even if you are healthy, vaccination helps protect vulnerable populations.

Where Can You Get a Flu Shot?

While StatCare Urgent Care does not offer flu vaccinations, flu shots are widely available at many local retail pharmacies and drug stores throughout South Texas. Most locations offer walk-in vaccinations with extended hours, making it easy to get protected.

If you have questions about whether the flu shot is appropriate for you, an urgent care provider can help guide that conversation.

When to Visit Urgent Care

If you develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, cough, or fatigue, urgent care can help evaluate your condition, determine whether testing is needed, and recommend treatment.

Learn more about services and locations by visiting www.mystatcare.com.

Stay Informed This Flu Season

Even if you choose to get vaccinated elsewhere, knowing when to seek medical care is just as important. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and support recovery.

Visit your nearest StatCare Urgent Care location for same-day evaluation of flu symptoms. Walk-ins are welcome.