Sept. 17, 2025
Marshfield Clinic is now providing influenza (flu) vaccinations at all primary care locations throughout Wisconsin.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. It can range from mild to severe and in some cases can lead to serious complications, as well as hospitalization or death.
During the most recent flu season, more than 600,000 people were hospitalized and over 27,000 died from flu-related illness in the United States. More than 260 deaths were children, and 90% of those deaths occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated.
The 2024-2025 flu season was classified as high severity – the most serious since the 2017-2018 season.
Getting a flu vaccine each year is the most effective way to prevent influenza. Research shows that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization and death due to flu.
“While no vaccine guarantees complete protection, flu vaccines help reduce the risk of severe illness and complications," said Dr. Thomas Boyce, infectious disease physician with Marshfield Clinic.
In the northern hemisphere, flu activity typically peaks between December and March, but can extend into May.
“Everyone should get a flu vaccine this year, preferably before November," Boyce said. “Flu seasons vary in timing and severity, and substantial flu activity can begin as early as November. It takes a couple weeks for your immune system to respond and generate protection after vaccination."
Some children may require two doses of the flu vaccine for protection. These doses must be spaced at least four weeks apart, so starting the vaccination process in September or October is recommended.
Marshfield Clinic will offer Fluzone for patients ages six months and older and Fluzone High-Dose for patients 65 and older. In addition, solid organ transplant recipients ages 18 to 64 years also may receive Fluzone High-Dose. The high dose vaccine designed to provide a greater level of protection against flu for patients eligible to receive it.
Vaccination is especially important for older adults and young children, who are more vulnerable to serious flu-related complications such as bacterial pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, and worsening of chronic conditions like heart failure, asthma or diabetes.
Flu vaccines also are important for pregnant women. Influenza can be harmful to the developing baby, and getting vaccinated during pregnancy helps protect newborns from flu illness and related hospitalizations during their first few months of life, when they are too young to be vaccinated themselves.
Flu vaccines are available at Marshfield Clinic primary care locations throughout the flu season. Appointments are preferred, but walk-in flu clinics will also be held periodically to make vaccination more accessible for patients and community members.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit marshfieldclinic.org/flu.
