LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — During the giving season, no one wants to get sick, but it's always a possibility that pharmacies like Kavanaugh Pharmacy are always prepared for.
Pharmacy owner Anne Pace shared that germs can especially spread during the holiday travel season.
"A great place to get the flu and other viruses is on airplanes and airports," Pace added.
So as viruses like the flu start to tick up in Arkansas, she's already prepared with medicine, as well as preventative care.
"The only way we're going to keep not seeing [a lot of flu cases] is if a good majority of the patients and the population gets their flu shot," Pace explained.
She also explained that there is still time to get a shot before seeing family and friends during the Christmas season.
"It is time to get your flu shot. It is not too late. So if your body comes into contact with one of those flu viruses, it already has the antibodies ready to fight it," She said.
Dr. Jerry Byrum with the All for Kids Pediatric Clinic also explained that the flu shot could save lives.
"The whole point of getting the flu shot [is it] might not completely stop the flu. But it stops you from dying from the flu. Unfortunately, this is not just a cold virus. This is a virus that can take your life, get your flu shot," Dr. Byrum explained.
While patients may feel achy after the shot, he said the shot won't give you the flu.
"That's inflammation. Tylenol makes it better. Motrin makes it better. It's not the flu," he said.
Doctors have been keeping an eye out for more than just the flu.
"Right now we're seeing lots of RSV. It's like overwhelming a big tsunami of it," he added.
While there is a shortage of RSV vaccines for some young kids, you can always check in with your doctor or pharmacy about availability for older age groups as well as keep up healthy habits.
"If you're sick, stay home, wash your hands really well. If you're around people wear a mask if you have to be out if you're sick," he said.
Though you can get your COVID booster at the same time as your flu shot, you don't have to.
"I fully anticipate that it is going to be flu shot, COVID shot, every year," Pace said, "Ask your pharmacy, ask your doctor about questions, and figure out what's right for you."
If you're interested in getting a flu or COVID shot, Pace recommends that you call your local pharmacy or doctor's office to schedule it.