Why Flu Protection Matters for Your Family’s Health:
The arrival of December means holiday celebrations, colder weather, and more time spent indoors with family and friends. It also marks National Influenza Vaccination Week, a nationwide effort to remind communities that it is never too late to get a flu shot. Even if the season is already underway, vaccination continues to be one of the most effective ways to prevent serious flu illness, reduce hospital visits, and keep families healthy during winter.
At South Tabor Family Physicians, we have cared for families in the Portland metro area for more than 60 years. Each year, we see firsthand how the flu affects children, adults, older adults, and households of every size. Getting your flu shot is a simple step that helps protect not only your own health, but also the health of those around you.
This expanded guide explains why influenza vaccination is so important, who benefits most, what symptoms to watch for, and how our team at STFP supports patients throughout flu season.
Why the Flu Remains a Serious Health Concern
Influenza is often mistaken for a common cold, but it is a very different illness. The flu can cause high fevers, severe fatigue, muscle aches, respiratory symptoms, and in some cases, dangerous complications such as pneumonia.
Every year in the United States:
• Millions of people get the flu
• Hundreds of thousands are hospitalized
• Tens of thousands die from flu-related complications
These numbers vary each season, but the message stays the same: the flu is not something to ignore, especially for children, pregnant individuals, adults over 65, and anyone with chronic health conditions. Flu viruses also change constantly. That is why annual vaccination is essential. Last year’s flu shot does not protect you against this year’s circulating strains.
How Flu Vaccines Work
Many people are surprised to learn that flu vaccines do not give you the flu. Instead, they work by training your immune system to recognize and fight the virus early, before symptoms get worse. Here is what happens in your body after receiving a flu shot:
- Your immune system identifies harmless pieces of the flu virus in the vaccine.
- Your body builds antibodies to fight those specific strains.
- If you are exposed later in the season, your immune system responds faster and more effectively.
This process typically takes two weeks, which is why early December is still an ideal time to get vaccinated.
Why Vaccination Helps Protect the Whole Community
One of the most important reasons to get a flu shot is to protect people who cannot easily protect themselves. These include:
• Infants younger than 6 months (too young for vaccination)
• Adults over age 65
• Patients who are immune compromised
• Pregnant individuals
• Children with asthma
• Adults with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
When more people in a community are vaccinated, flu spreads less easily, and high-risk groups are better shielded from severe illness. This is especially important during the holidays, when travel, gatherings, and indoor celebrations increase opportunities for the flu to spread.
Who Should Receive a Flu Shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for nearly everyone age 6 months and older. Specific groups are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated:
Children
Young children have higher complication rates from the flu. A yearly flu shot reduces their risk of hospitalization and helps protect classmates, younger siblings, and grandparents.
Adults 65+
Older adults have weaker immune responses and higher rates of pneumonia and severe illness. Vaccination is one of the most important tools for staying healthy through winter.
People with Chronic Health Conditions
This includes individuals with:
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• COPD
• Immune disorders
For these patients, flu infection can quickly worsen underlying conditions.
Pregnant Individuals
A flu shot protects both the pregnant person and the baby for several months after birth. If you are unsure whether you or your child should be vaccinated, your STFP health care provider can help guide you.
Why Getting Vaccinated in December Still Helps
Even if flu season has already started, early December is an excellent time to get your flu shot for several reasons:
• Flu activity often peaks in January or February
• Immunity builds within two weeks, offering timely holiday protection
• Many people travel or gather indoors in December, increasing exposure risk
• Circulating strains can continue into late spring
Getting vaccinated now can protect you throughout the holidays and well into the new year.
Common Flu Symptoms to Watch For
Flu symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:
• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Nausea, especially in children
If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, dehydration, or symptoms that worsen quickly, contact your health care provider right away.
Does the Flu Shot Prevent All Flu Cases?
No vaccine is 100 percent effective, but flu shots significantly reduce the risk and severity of illness. People who get vaccinated and still catch the flu tend to experience:
• Milder symptoms
• Shorter illness duration
• Lower risk of emergency room visits
• Fewer complications, including pneumonia
The goal is not just preventing illness; it is preventing serious illness.
Flu Shots at South Tabor Family Physicians
STFP offers flu vaccines for both children and adults. Patients appreciate our:
• Convenient appointments
• Friendly and experienced health care providers
• On-site lab testing (if needed for other conditions)
• The ability to combine flu shots with routine check-ups
If your child needs immunizations, a school physical, or a wellness visit, our team can help take care of everything in one visit. We also support individuals needing guidance on chronic medical conditions that may increase flu risk.
How to Stay Healthy Beyond the Flu Shot
Immunity is essential, but daily habits support your health too. Simple steps include:
• Wash hands often
• Use hand sanitizer when needed
• Stay home if you feel sick
• Improve sleep routines
• Eat balanced meals with fruits and vegetables
• Keep your home’s air clean and well ventilated
• Limit close contact with people who are ill
These small habits help protect you from the flu and many other winter illnesses.
Helpful Resources for Flu Season
For patients who want more information about influenza, vaccination, and prevention:
CDC: Key Facts About Seasonal Flu
Oregon Health Authority: Flu Prevention in Oregon
These trusted resources provide up-to-date guidance, data, and safety information.
We’re conveniently located right off I-205 and are accepting new patients.
Call 503-261-7200 to schedule your next visit or get to know our providers here:
https://www.southtabor.com/meet-our-providers/
