Tucson, ARIZ. (Oct. 29, 2019) – Banner Health flu experts are “preparing for the worst’’ for the upcoming flu seasons as early flu cases in Australia and even in the U.S. indicate that this season may be worse than others.

Sound-on-tape/B-roll: Expert talking about 2019-20 flu season

With the public exposure of Halloween, Banner – University Medicine officials recommend getting the flu shot before heading out to trick or treat.  

“At this point, we would advocate getting the flu shot as soon as possible,’’ said Carlyn Coates, PA, Banner Urgent Care Tucson. “I would recommend not putting it off because we really don’t know when the flu season is going to start.’’

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is recommended that vaccination should be offered by the end of October. Children aged 6 months through 8 years, who require 2 doses, should receive their first dose as soon as possible after the vaccine becomes available to allow the second dose, which must be administered 4 weeks later to be received by the end of October. 

Australian officials say they treated record-breaking numbers of flu patients this season. In the U.S., a four-year-old California boy died from influenza in September and California continues to record other flu-related deaths.

“We look at Australia, where it is their winter season right now, and they are getting hit hard by the flu. They are having a heavier than typical flu season, so we are preparing for the worst,’’ said Devin Minior, MD, physician executive at Banner Urgent Care. Banner Urgent has locations in Phoenix, Tucson and Colorado. (Minior is pronounced “minor”)

Flu shots are available at Banner Urgent Care clinics; $0 copay with most insurances. Banner offers easy online check-in and scheduling, walk-ins are welcome, and hours are daily from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Banner Urgent Care clinics offer three tailored flu vaccines: children age 6 months to 35 months, people age 3 to 65 and a high dose for those 65 and older.

In his video, Minior addresses:

Why do some people feel crummy after getting a flu shot? “Some individuals have different reactions to the flu shot. Some people get soreness at the vaccination and others may get cough, cold or small fever. That’s just a natural reaction to the chemical of the vaccine going into the body.’’

Danger posed to children by the flu: “Children typically don’t; have a strong immune system until after they reach their teenage years and they develop a full immune response. So, they are more susceptible to any type of illness.’’

Number-one tip to stay healthy: "First and foremost is good hand hygiene. Continue washing your hands with soap and water and as an alternative you can use an alcohol-based rub.’’

Interested in setting up an interview with one of our flu experts? Email: Rebecca.ruizmcgill@bannerhealth.com; 520-694-5347

About Banner Urgent Care

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 www.BannerHealth.com/urgentcare.