A leading pulmonologist outlined key facts about influenza prevention and transmission during a recent television appearance, emphasizing the importance of annual vaccination and proper timing.
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza discussed the nature of influenza during his Dec. 8, 2025, guest appearance on “Newsmakers ug Uban Pa.”
Cepedoza said flu season typically runs from June or July through January or February, when transmission of the virus increases.
He recommended getting the annual flu vaccine by March, when new formulations become available, to maintain protection through December. Getting vaccinated between December and February is ineffective because a new vaccine will be available by March, he said.
“There is no such thing as overdose on flu vaccine,” Cepedoza said.
The vaccine is 80% effective but requires yearly updates because the flu virus changes its genetic makeup, he said. Scientists can predict which strains will be prevalent in a given year.
Cepedoza said the elderly and those with underlying health conditions should get vaccinated, adding there is no age limit for vaccination.
Symptoms and transmission
Common influenza symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, runny nose, cough and, in some cases, pneumonia. Those susceptible to pneumonia particularly need vaccination, Cepedoza said.
The virus spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces or respiratory droplets from infected people. Hand washing helps prevent transmission, he said.
Infected individuals can transmit the virus five days before symptoms appear and remain contagious until seven days after symptoms begin, when antibodies eliminate the virus, Cepedoza said.
Recurring flu symptoms may result from bacterial infections that take advantage of inflamed airways, he said.
Treatment
Antivirals can prevent flu from developing into pneumonia but should be prescribed sparingly to avoid supply shortages, Cepedoza said.
Rest and fluids ease symptoms and support the immune system, though home remedies cannot eliminate the virus, he said. Pain relievers help with symptoms but are not antivirals. Antibiotics are ineffective against flu because they target bacteria, not viruses.
Patients should consult doctors for proper prescriptions, Cepedoza said. Complete rest, balanced diet and regular exercise strengthen the immune system, particularly in younger people.
Pneumonia patients may require supplemental oxygen when lungs cannot draw sufficient oxygen from air, he said.