Dec 19, 2025

It's not too late to vaccinate, take steps to prevent illness

AUGUSTA-- The Department of Health and Human Services' (DHHS') Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) urges Mainers to take steps to protect their health as influenza (flu) activity begins to rise across Maine.

Recent data (PDF) show an increase in emergency department visits for flu-like illness and a marked rise in hospitalizations. So far this season, there have been a total of 62 hospitalizations due to influenza, with 27 reported last week alone.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent flu or from becoming severely ill from the virus and its complications. It is not too late to receive a flu shot this season. Annual flu vaccination can help reduce the risk of illness, lessen the severity of symptoms, and prevent missed work or school. Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone six months and older.

"The holidays are a time for togetherness, and we want everyone to stay healthy," said Dr. Puthiery Va, Director of the Maine CDC. "Getting a flu shot is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones against infections and lessen your symptoms if you get the flu. It's not too late to take this step today for a safer, healthier season."

People with flu often experience fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, joint aches, and fatigue. Certain groups, including older adults, young children, those with certain chronic medical conditions, and pregnant people face a higher risk of developing severe illness and hospitalization.

To protect yourself and others, the Maine CDC recommends the following prevention strategies:

• Stay up to date with annual flu vaccination.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect commonly-touched surfaces and objects.

For more information about the flu and prevention tips, please visit https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/diseases-conditions/respiratory-illnesses/influenza-novel.

To find the nearest location to get a flu vaccine, contact your local pharmacy or health care provider.