DPH encourages residents to get vaccinated as flu season starts

COLUMBIA – As the 2026-27 flu season begins, the South Carolina Department of Public Health recommends residents take steps to avoid illness, including getting an annual seasonal influenza vaccine.

Flu season in the United States begins in October and extends through May, typically peaking between December and February.

The best protection against the illness is the flu shot. DPH recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older who is eligible get vaccinated.

“Because it takes about two weeks for your body to develop protection after receiving the flu vaccine, we encourage anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated yet to do so before flu activity increases,” said Dr. Abdoulaye Diedhiou, state epidemiologist. “Getting vaccinated helps prevent illness, reduces the risk of severe complications and protects the broader community.”

Each year in South Carolina, an average of 250 people die due to complications from the flu, including four pediatric deaths.

Vaccinations can be obtained at local pharmacies or healthcare providers. Those without insurance and those whose insurance does not cover vaccines may be eligible for no-cost vaccines at DPH clinics. For more information about eligibility, contact DPH’s Care Line at 1-855-472-3432.

In addition to vaccines, other precautions are strongly recommended to prevent spread of illnesses like the flu, including washing your hands regularly with soap and water, covering your coughs or sneezes with a tissue or your elbow and staying home and away from others when sick.

The active flu season coincides with ongoing cases of other respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19 and RSV. The same preventive methods can protect against these illnesses: vaccination and frequent handwashing. DPH recommends talking with a healthcare provider about what vaccines are right for you.

DPH keeps the public informed about influenza activity throughout the year through Flu Watch, a report published each Wednesday.

Additional information about flu and the flu vaccine is also available at DPH’s flu webpage. To find a vaccine provider near you, visit DPH’s vaccine finder.