Keep your guard up. It's that time again - September is in the air, and so is the flu.

Health officials are urging the community to stay alert as flu season begins, stressing the importance of protecting our most vulnerable from potentially dangerous complications.

September signals the start of the "-ber" months, and as the holiday spirit begins to build and spread, so does an unwelcome guest in the tropics: the flu.

 “I like to lump it up to this is the respiratory virus season for the tropics: Saipan, all of Micronesia, Hawaii—this is the season that we see influenza both A and B, we see RSV, we see COVID–this is that season," explained Dr. Bob Leon Guerrero, chief medical officer at the Department of Public Health and Social Services, sounding the alarm on the current season for the highly contagious viral disease on the island, which, along with it, comes with other viruses creeping up.

This time of the year also marks the first time many children who lack immunity are back in school.

 “They’re the ones that are most likely not immune to the flu, so they’re the ones who are most likely to  pick up and go home and spread it to their family and friends," the physician continued.

It’s why Dr. Leon Guerrero recommends the community take preventative measures like getting vaccinated. 

To note, DPHSS advises a yearly flu vaccine is recommended to everyone 6 months and older–especially young children, pregnant women, those aged 60 and older and those with chronic health conditions. 

“Regarding vaccines, I always tell the parents of my patients that It’s not 100%; you’re going to see some people who got the shot but still got the disease, but it decreases the risk," he said.

It’s a word of caution some in the community are taking to heart, like Yigo resident Maui Echon, who said. “This year, I’m planning to get vaccinated at the end of this month.”

While others are trying to reduce their risk of getting sick by social distancing. Nellie Rogelio, a Dededo resident, shared, “Stay away from people that are sick!”

Dr. Leon Guerrero also underscores the importance of hand-washing, mask-wearing, and staying home when you are sick.

Those looking to get vaccinated for the flu are advised to talk to their primary healthcare provider.