Each December, National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) serves as an important reminder: it’s not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. From December 1-5, 2025, University Medical Center of El Paso encourages flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older.
Flu season doesn’t wait, and neither should we. NIVW shines a spotlight on an essential truth: the annual flu vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent influenza and its potentially serious complications. Even in December and beyond, vaccination is still beneficial and strongly recommended.
Why Getting Vaccinated Is So Important
Influenza is more than a seasonal inconvenience, it can lead to severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. A yearly flu vaccine provides a powerful layer of protection, especially for:
- Pregnant women, who are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications.
- Young children, millions of whom catch the flu each year—and thousands of whom require hospitalization.
- People with chronic health conditions, older adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Because flu viruses change from year to year, and our immunity naturally decreases over time, getting vaccinated annually is essential. The flu vaccine is specifically designed to target circulating strains each season and has consistently been shown to reduce the severity of illness for those who do get sick.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call 1-800-473-8440 or 915-479-3484 today to schedule an appointment, or visit www.umcelpaso.org to learn more.
