Overview:

As winter viruses spread quickly, healthcare leaders at Prism Health North Texas are urging Dallas residents to take proactive steps to protect their health, including getting immunizations such as flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and RSV vaccines for older adults and new parents. Simple habits such as frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, getting good sleep, and eating balanced meals can also help prevent serious illness. Prism Health North Texas provides affordable access to care regardless of insurance status, with most major insurance plans covering flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no out-of-pocket cost in 2025.

Winter Wellness Starts with Prevention

As temperatures drop and families gather for the holidays, winter viruses begin to spread just as quickly as cheer. At Prism Health North Texas, healthcare leaders are urging Dallas residents, especially our families in South Dallas, to take simple, proactive steps to protect their health this season. Immunizations, providers say, remain one of the most effective tools for preventing serious illness and keeping loved ones safe.

“Cold weather is here, gatherings are picking up, and so are winter viruses,” says Jason Vercher, MPAS, PA-C, Executive Vice President of Operations at Prism Health North Texas. “This is the time to check in on your overall health and make sure you’re protected.”

An Extra Layer of Protection

Simple habits go a long way in winter, from frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes to getting good sleep and listening to your body when you need a break. Eating balanced meals, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding close contact with others when you – or they – are sick helps protect you and the people around you.

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“The basics still matter,” Vercher explains. “Wash your hands, cover coughs and sneezes, get enough rest. But it’s also important to make sure your immunizations are up to date.”

Vaccines help reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and time missed from work or school. Seasonal immunizations, like the flu shot, COVID-19 boosters, and RSV vaccines for older adults and new parents, are especially important during the winter months.

An annual flu vaccine is recommended because flu viruses change year to year, making last season’s shot less effective against new strains. Providers at Prism Health North Texas encourage patients to talk with a healthcare professional about which vaccines make the most sense for their age, health history, and family needs.

No Need to Be Vexed With Vaccine Questions 

With so much information and misinformation circulating, it’s normal to have questions about vaccines. Vercher emphasizes that Prism Health North Texas providers are there to listen.

“Vaccines are one of the best tools we have to keep ourselves and our families healthy,” he says. “Side effects are typically minimal, like mild soreness at the injection site, and they won’t interrupt your day-to-day routine.”

Credit: Prism Health North Texas/ ESNTL Aesthetics

Most importantly, remember that vaccination isn’t just a personal choice, it’s a community effort. “Getting vaccinated helps protect the people you care about most,” Vercher adds.

Affordable Access for Every Family

Prism Health North Texas provides care regardless of insurance status, serving patients with private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP, or no insurance at all through a sliding fee scale based on income. In 2025, most major insurance plans cover flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no out-of-pocket cost. For uninsured patients, assistance programs are available to help cover immunizations.

“Cost should never be a barrier to prevention,” Vercher says. “Vaccination is one of the most affordable ways to add an extra layer of protection during a busy season.”

Patients can easily contact one of Prism Health North Texas’ friendly team members to confirm coverage, explore financial assistance, and schedule appointments for the whole family.

Tis The Season for Care

With same-day and next-day appointments available, Prism Health North Texas makes it easier to get care quickly. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need vaccines, or simply have questions, they’ve got you covered. 

“Listen to your body and take those simple steps to stay healthy,” Vercher encourages. “We’re here to help you protect the people you love.”

To learn more or make an appointment, call 214-521-5191 or visit phntx.org.

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