Media Contact:
Tamara Hand
Hospital Marketing Director
Mimbres Valley Medical Center
[email protected]
575-546-5458
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Health officials across Canada and the U.K. are reporting an early and intense start to flu season driven by a new H3N2 strain. Early waves like this could signal what communities in the U.S. may face in the coming weeks.
Even though some emerging H3N2 mutations may not perfectly match the current vaccine, José Sánchez Sosa, FNP-BC, a member of the medical staff at Mimbres Valley Medical Center, states that vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for protection.
“We are experiencing a more severe season than we’ve seen in recent years,” said Sanchez Sosa “Even with the variant’s mutations, the flu vaccine still helps reduce the risk of infection, complications, and hospitalizations. The sooner you get it, the better—it remains the strongest defense to protect ourselves and each other.”
Mimbres Valley Medical is encouraging families—especially young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions—to take preventative steps now. This includes getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, and practicing good hygiene, such as handwashing and covering coughs.
Gear Up for Sick Season
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), staying up to date on immunizations remains one of the most effective strategies to reduce the risk of serious illness from respiratory viruses. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines can often be administered during a single visit or spaced out based on individual preference.
“On-time immunizations play a vital role in protecting people from serious diseases—vaccinations are safe, highly effective, and an easy way to protect yourself and your family,” explained José Sánchez Sosa, FNP-BC, “Different vaccines work in a variety of ways to help the body’s immune system learn how to fight germs. It typically takes a few weeks for protection to develop after vaccination.”
As with any medication, vaccines may cause side effects. Most individuals experience only mild symptoms or none at all. The most common side effects include fatigue, low-grade fever, body aches, or soreness and swelling at the injection site. These usually resolve on their own within a few days. Serious or long-term side effects are rare.
It’s also important to remember that immunity from certain vaccines can diminish over time. Booster shots may be necessary to maintain protection, like the tetanus booster recommended every 10 years for adults. A healthcare provider can help review immunization history to identify any missed vaccines or necessary updates.
Key Respiratory Illness Immunizations
COVID-19
The CDC recommends an updated COVID-19 vaccine for most adults aged 18 years and older. Parents of children ages 6 months to 17 years should consult their children’s healthcare provider about the benefits of vaccination. Research continues to show that COVID-19 vaccination may also reduce the risk of developing Long COVID.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu vaccine is recommended annually for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- Adults 75 and older are advised to get an RSV
- Adults ages 50–74 with risk factors for severe illness may also benefit from the
- To protect infants from RSV, the CDC recommends either vaccination of the pregnant mother or immunization of the infant with an RSV monoclonal antibody—most infants will not need both.
Patients may also be due for additional vaccinations that protect against pneumococcal disease, shingles, or pertussis (also known as whooping cough). Discussing these options with a healthcare provider can help ensure comprehensive protection heading into sick season.
Steps to Stay Protected
- Talk with a healthcare provider to make sure all recommended vaccines are up to date.
- Review the CDC’s vaccine schedule to understand what immunizations are needed and
- Visit vaccines.gov to find a local provider or local pharmacy offering vaccines.
For more information about available services or to schedule an appointment, contact Mimbres Valley Medical Group/RHC at 575-543-7200 or visit MimbresAnytime.com.
Mimbres Valley Medical Group, Rural Health Care
Mimbres Valley Medical Group/RHC provides Cardiology, Family Practice, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, preventative outpatient care to southwestern New Mexico. Mimbres Valley Medical Group/Rural Health Clinic is located on campus at Mimbres Valley Medical Center at 905 South 8th Street Suite B. Patients can make appointments either through central scheduling by calling 575-543-7200 or online at MimbresAnytime.com.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/immunizations.html#cdc_prevention_pre-steps-you-can-take