Why Flu Season Matters More for CKD Patients in Fort Worth and Dallas
Living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your body is more vulnerable to infections like the flu. A simple illness can quickly lead to:
• Hospitalization
• Pneumonia or other infections
• Dangerous changes in blood pressure or fluid balance
According to the CDC, people with CKD are hospitalized for flu-related complications at much higher rates than the general population. That’s why prevention is so important for our patients here in Fort Worth and across Dallas–Fort Worth.
Prevention Tips for Kidney Patients
Get Your Flu Shot
• Recommended every year for all CKD patients
• Safe for dialysis patients and most transplant recipients (inactivated vaccine only)
• Best timing: September–October, but still helpful later in the season
• Available at local pharmacies, primary care offices and some dialysis centers in Fort Worth
Other Helpful Vaccines
• Pneumonia vaccine (to prevent serious infections)
• COVID-19 booster if eligible
Healthy Habits
• Wash hands often
• Wear a mask in crowded spaces
• Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods
• Prioritize rest and stress management
Special Notes for Dialysis & Transplant Patients
For Dialysis Patients
• Don’t skip treatments. Missing dialysis can be more dangerous than the flu itself
• Let your dialysis team know right away if you’re sick
• At Fort Worth Renal Group dialysis centers, we use infection-control measures to keep you safe
For Transplant Patients
• Immunosuppressant medications make flu complications more likely
• Call your nephrologist immediately at the first sign of flu symptoms
• Early treatment with antiviral medications may be needed
Know the Symptoms
Common flu symptoms:
• Fever or chills
• Cough, sore throat
• Body aches, fatigue
• Headaches
Red flags for kidney patients:
• Fever higher than 101°F
• Trouble breathing or chest pain
• Swelling or reduced urine output
• Missing dialysis treatments due to illness
If you notice these symptoms, contact Fort Worth Renal Group or your nearest urgent care/ER immediately.
What To Do if You Get the Flu
- Call your nephrologist or dialysis center
- Ask if antiviral medication is right for you (dose adjusted for kidney function)
- Stay hydrated and monitor your blood pressure
- Rest and isolate to protect others
- Go to the ER if your symptoms worsen
Partner With Your Kidney Care Team
Flu season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Our team at Fort Worth Renal Group partners with patients to:
• Recommend preventive care
• Adjust treatment plans if you get sick
• Coordinate with local hospitals if needed
Your kidney health is our priority and together, we can help you stay safe this flu season.
FAQs
Can CKD patients get the flu shot?
Yes. Most kidney patients should get the annual flu shot.
Should dialysis patients skip treatment if they have the flu?
No. Call your dialysis center. Skipping treatments can be very dangerous.
Where can I get a flu shot in Fort Worth?
Most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart), primary care clinics and some dialysis centers offer flu shots locally.
Flu season is here in North Texas. Protect your health today.
Contact Fort Worth Renal Group to discuss vaccines, dialysis safety or personalized flu season care.
