It’s that time of year again — cooler weather, falling leaves, pumpkin spice and … flu season.

While influenza has taken a backseat to COVID-19 these last two years, experts warn that influenza is still a virus that we should be cautious of and that we may see an increase in the flu this winter.

Here, our infectious disease expert Dr. Gonzalo Bearman shares his thoughts on the upcoming flu season and answers your questions about influenza.

Why is it important to get a flu shot?

Influenza hasn't gone away, and it continues to be a threat. This summer, there was an increase in influenza in the southern hemisphere, which predicts an increase in influenza for us in the winter. Based on this, we anticipate greater amounts of flu this year. The flu vaccine, although not 100% effective for preventing infection, minimizes the risk of infection and minimizes the risk of having a severe case of influenza.

When should you get a flu shot?

Flu vaccines are available now. Generally speaking, it is recommended that people get the vaccine in the fall in order to have maximal protection during the winter season.

Who should get the flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for all individuals over 6 months who do not have any contraindications.

Anyone who is eligible should get the vaccine, particularly individuals that have chronic underlying conditions including diabetes, chronic lung or pulmonary conditions or cancers.

Why do you need to get vaccinated every year?

The flu is a very resilient virus that mutates and changes year to year. So, we can't develop a vaccine that will predict what the flu will look like in the future. Because of the mutations in the influenza, the vaccine is changed year after year to provide better protection.

Can you get the flu even if you got the flu shot?

Yes. The protection from the vaccine is not 100% and you can still get an infection with influenza despite being vaccinated. However, the vaccine protects you in two different ways — it decreases your risk of infection and decreases the risk of having a severe infection.

Aside from the flu shot, what else can we do to protect ourselves and families?

Wearing a mask in crowded environments and washing your hands are ways that help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Healthy lifestyles also protect us from viruses. If you're a smoker, quit smoking. If you have a condition, such as diabetes, having better control of the condition is good for the overall immune function.

We know that COVID-19 is still a factor, how can you tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu symptoms?

You really can't tell the difference because the symptoms are very similar. Getting tested is important for diagnosis and for treatment.

Can you get the flu vaccine and the updated COVID-19 vaccine at the same time? 

Yes, it’s safe to get both vaccines at the same time. 

Where can you get the flu shot or the COVID-19 vaccine?

Your doctor’s office, most retail pharmacies and major health care centers should offer the vaccines. You can also check with the Virginia Department of Health.

Anything else that you would like to add?

Influenza has not gone away. And this is a reminder that influenza historically kills between 30,000 to 60,000 Americans each year. It is still very much a threat. We should take it seriously, get vaccinated and take the measures to protect ourselves and our families.