Imran Andrabi, MD, FAAFM President and CEO | Thedacare Regional Medical Center-Appleton
Imran Andrabi, MD, FAAFM President and CEO | Thedacare Regional Medical Center-Appleton
ThedaCare is urging residents of northeast and central Wisconsin to prepare for the upcoming flu season by getting vaccinated against influenza. The respiratory illness affects millions of Americans each year and can result in serious health complications.
Dr. Dirk Steinert, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Ambulatory Care for ThedaCare, said now is the time to start planning for a flu shot. “Now is the time to start planning for your flu shot,” Dr. Steinert said. “Cases of respiratory flu can begin to show up as early as October. Get vaccinated to give yourself and your family the best odds of avoiding flu this season.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. This measure not only protects individuals but also helps safeguard their families and communities during flu season. For adults 65 years or older, the CDC advises a high-dose vaccine; these individuals should consult with their provider about which type of vaccine is appropriate.
Flu seasons in the United States often lead to widespread illness, hospitalizations, and sometimes death. According to CDC estimates, the 2024-25 season resulted in up to 1.3 million hospitalizations and as many as 130,000 deaths nationwide (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html). Vaccination prevents millions of cases and reduces doctor’s visits every year.
Dr. Steinert emphasized that children are particularly at risk from influenza complications: “Don’t underestimate the risk to kids,” he said. “Tragically, the 2024-2025 flu season resulted in 216 pediatric deaths in the U.S. The CDC said that made it the deadliest non-pandemic flu season on record.”
He explained that vaccination is especially important for young children: “Kids between the ages of 6 months and 8 years getting the flu vaccine for the first time will need two injections at smaller doses,” Dr. Steinert explained. “In later years, they’ll need only one dose.”
While vaccination does not guarantee complete protection—since some people may be exposed before developing immunity or encounter strains not included in that year's vaccine—studies show it can reduce both severity and duration if illness occurs.
“Fortunately, flu vaccination has been shown in studies to reduce the severity and duration of illness in those who do get sick,” Dr. Steinert said. “And, to answer a frequent question we often are asked this time of year, no, you cannot get the flu from the vaccine.”
He recommended receiving vaccinations between mid-September and late October but noted it remains worthwhile throughout any period when influenza poses a community threat.
Dr. Steinert advised anyone with questions or concerns about immunization to speak with their healthcare provider.
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