State Epidemiologist Dr. Renia Dotson said Mississippi historically experiences an increase in influenza cases around January, with additional peaks in February or March. However, Dotson emphasized that getting vaccinated early provides the best protection.
“We do expect it to increase. Now is the perfect time to vaccinate, to protect yourself against the season. And that, you know, the vaccines are safe,” said Dotson. “They've been updated to the best of our knowledge and that we encourage people to take them, but if you choose not after you have spoken with a trusted provider, then we encourage you to take precautions.”
Dotson added that anyone who feels sick should isolate and wear a mask if possible. Health officials note that populations most vulnerable to severe illness include pregnant women, adults 60 and older, and infants and children ages 6 months to 2 years.
Uninsured or underinsured families can visit local county health departments to receive immunizations at little to no cost.
Amanda Netdaj, director of immunization for the state Department of Health, said low-cost options are also available for children through the Vaccines for Children program and CHIP.
“We have about 400 providers that are enrolled in what's called VFC, which is the Vaccines for Children Program. And so any of those providers could provide a VFC eligible child with the flu vaccine at little to absolutely no cost.”
Health officials stress that healthy habits complement, rather than replace, recommended vaccines.
Dr. John Mitchell, chief medical officer for True Care, a Mississippi Medicaid coordinated care organization, noted that vaccines can take up to two weeks to build full immunity.
“Now is the time to get vaccinated,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell also encourages patients to consult healthcare providers and make informed decisions about getting vaccinated.
Gared Buffington, a pharmacist with the state Department of Health, emphasized that annual immunizations are essential because flu viruses continuously evolve and protective immunity fades over time.
“Talk with someone trusted, whether it's your primary care provider or your pharmacist, anyone that you would take health care advice from, someone who would go see for health care,” said Buffington. “Don't just get all your healthcare information from social media influencers.”
As the weather cools, health leaders stress that it is never too early to receive an updated shot. “It's always good to get your updated influenza immunization. And also a good thing to think about is you're not only protecting yourself, you're also protecting others around you who may not be able to get the vaccine for whatever reason,” Buffington said.
Officials recommend staying home when sick, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and considering a face covering when experiencing respiratory symptoms.
