Flu cases surge; vaccine still has protective benefit
- Jan 14
- 1 min read
Flu activity is climbing in Washington state, but experts say it’s not too late to protect yourself.
“Every flu season is unique. Last year was rough, and this year looks similar,” says UW Medicine’s Dr. John Lynch, an infectious disease expert.
According to the CDC, emergency department visits for the flu in Washington state are moderate but increasing.
“The biggest risk groups are the very young and the very old. Both should be thinking about contacting their primary care doctor, and if symptoms are severe, seeking urgent care or an emergency department,” Lynch advises.
“It’s still an absolutely great time to get the influenza vaccine. The immune response kicks in about two weeks after vaccination, so if you haven’t gotten it yet, now’s the time.”
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