As the holiday season begins and with chillier weather underway, experts at Banner Health say they’re preparing to see a spike in flu cases and respiratory illnesses.
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“At this time, flu is rising to above a five-year season average, no real numbers yet, but given that the flu season has just begun, we expect it to be higher in the next few weeks and months,” said Samia Kadri, a nurse practitioner with Banner Urgent Care.
Right now, flu cases are on the lower end, according to the Arizona Department of Public Health, but is expected to climb, especially as people begin to travel and gather for the holiday season.
“While traveling, we recommend wearing a mask if you’re traveling by airplane, washing your hands, using hand sanitizer, and additional rest and hydration,” Kadri says. “Once you get your flu shot, it takes three weeks to take full effect, so the sooner you receive the vaccine, the better off you’ll be to protect yourself and loved ones.”
It is also recommended that anyone 65 years and older receive a high-dose flu vaccine for better protection since they are at higher risk for developing serious complications, such as pneumonia and hospitalizations.
Banner Urgent Care offers those high-dose flu vaccines, in addition to providing care for those who may be suffering from some of these respiratory illnesses.
Right now, flu shots are available at Banner Urgent Care clinics; $0 copay with most insurances. Walk-ins are always welcome, or you can schedule your appointment here.
Banner Urgent Care does not offer COVID vaccines. For information on where to receive your COVID shot, visit Vaccines.gov and enter your zip code to find a vaccine location near you.
Banner Urgent Care provides a close, convenient and affordable treatment option for patients with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries such as cold and flu; ear, eye and throat infections; fevers; skin rashes; and sprains, strains and lacerations. Banner Urgent Care is open every day of the year and accepts most insurance plans. For more information, locations and hours of operation, please visit urgentcare.bannerhealth.com.
