Flu Season/Holiday Travel Tips from a Pharmacist, with Dr. Keri Hurley

It’s no secret that the risk of getting the flu is much higher during the fall and winter months and that holiday travel often leads to rises in flu cases.

To protect yourself from the flu during holiday travel, Dr. Keri Hurley, a professor in the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, said that getting vaccinated is the best thing you can do: “I think my top three tips for flu protection are get your flu shot, get your flu shot, and get your flu shot!”

National Influenza Vaccination Week is observed from December 4-8. Not only is this an annual observance, but it’s also an ideal time to get your flu shot if you haven’t already been vaccinated, said Dr. Hurley. She advised that the influenza vaccine can take 10-14 days to build up to full protection, making this week a “last chance” opportunity for holiday travelers looking to increase their immunity before a trip.

Dr. Hurley mentioned the benefits that handwashing and wearing a mask can offer for flu protection (and protection against COVID-19, RSV, and other illnesses) but emphasized that getting vaccinated is still the best way to guard against illness. Whereas masking and handwashing need to be done regularly in order to be effective, one flu vaccine can protect you for the season. However, getting multiple flu shots throughout your life (e.g. one every flu season) is the best way to build up your immunity against influenza.

Getting a flu shot in anticipation of holiday travel can be a good opportunity to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine as well, said Dr. Hurley. Pharmacists, who have become essential figures in vaccine administration, are an accessible source for people who are hoping to get vaccinated before holiday travel.

Stay safe this flu season, and happy holidays from all of us here at the UCI School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences!