Doctors and nurses are encouraging people to get the flu vaccine amid concerns that people can get contract both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.
According to Parkland Hospital's Chief Medical Officer, Joseph Chang, MD, this is the year to get the flu shot.
“Get your shot as soon as possible, because it takes about two weeks to build your immunity to the flu after you get the vaccination. The worst case scenario for anyone would be contracting both flu and COVID-19 at the same time," said Chang.
Flu season is typically during the fall and winter months, which lasts from October through March, but could sometimes be longer.
Experts are urging people to get the flu shot sooner rather than later, especially those who are elderly, young children, pregnant or have diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, heart and lung disease.
Doctors are also concerned misinformation may deter people from getting the shot which is why they're trying to dispel any myths.
Dr. Trish Perl, who is an Infectious disease specialist at Parkland and Chief of Infectious Disease at UT Southwestern Medical Center, said the flu vaccine doesn't make people sick with the flu.
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“That’s a myth,” she said in a statement. “After receiving the vaccine some patients may experience symptoms like low-grade fever, but the symptoms usually go away within a day or two.”
Parkland is offering two drive-thru clinics for Dallas County residents where people can get their vaccine from the convenience of their car.
Drive-Thru Locations:
- Ellis Davis Field House, 9191 South Polk Street, Dallas
- Eastfield College Campus test site, 3737 Motley Drive, Mesquite
- Both sites are open Mondays through Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
People can also get their flu shot on Wednesday during "Walk-in Wednesdays" at the Community Oriented Primary Care (COPC) health centers. An appointment is not needed.
There will also be a drive-thru.
- Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- deHaro-Saldivar Health Center, 1400 N. Westmoreland Road, Dallas
- No appointment necessary
To learn more about locations click here.
