Flu season is getting an early start this year, and Delaware health officials are encouraging residents to talk with their doctors about getting vaccinated.
Delaware's first surgeon general, Dr. Neil Hockstein, received his flu shot in Newark, Del., as part of an effort to encourage vaccinations ahead of the 2026 flu season.
Stream Philadelphia News for free, 24/7, wherever you are with NBC10.
"And this year it has started a little bit earlier we are not seeing high hospitalizations yet, but vaccination is the best way to prevent that," Hockstein said.
Hockstein also addressed growing vaccine hesitancy, which he said has become more common since the COVID-19 pandemic, including among officials at the highest levels of federal health departments.
"Look ultimately I think we are all interested in the same things we are interested in protecting ourselves and our families and communities. We know vaccinations are safe and effective. Flu vaccines have been around for many decades. We know they're safe we know they're effective and unfortunately people are afraid," Hockstein said.
Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Christen Linke Young also received her flu shot at the event.
"Getting these vaccines is the best way to protect not only yourself but your family and our entire communities," Young said.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
Other ways to protect yourself from the flu
Beyond vaccination, health officials recommend taking everyday precautions to reduce the spread of the flu.
Those precautions include washing your hands frequently, avoiding sharing drinks or utensils and staying home when you're sick.
People who develop flu symptoms are also urged to contact their doctors as soon as possible. Early treatment with flu medications can help those medications work more quickly and effectively.
For anyone considering a flu shot, Hockstein encourages having a conversation with a doctor to determine the best course of action.
This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC Philadelphia journalist edited the article for publication.