Preventive care is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our community healthy – and it’s never more important than during flu season. At Graves Gilbert Clinic, Dr. Thomas Sternberg has built his career on helping patients stay well through education, prevention, and a truly patient-centered approach.
As part of the Allergy and Immunology team at Graves Gilbert Clinic, Dr. Sternberg works alongside Dr. James Parkerson, Dr. Kourtney Gardner, and nurse practitioners Shauna Stice and Latricia Riley to treat conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, eczema, immune deficiencies, urticaria, and angioedema. Yet, one of his most important public health priorities is simple: preventing the flu. “The CDC recommends early, yearly flu vaccination,” Dr. Sternberg explains. “It’s one of the most effective ways to reduce infection risk, flu-related doctor visits, and hospitalizations.”
The numbers speak volumes. Studies show that flu vaccination can reduce ICU admissions for adults with influenza by 82%, and in children, it can reduce severe, life-threatening influenza by 75%. The CDC advises that everyone six months of age and older should receive the vaccine annually – ideally beginning in September – unless they have a rare contraindication.
Why Prevention Matters
Flu prevention starts with simple, everyday actions:
•Get vaccinated each year
•Wash hands frequently
•Avoid close contact with those who are sick
•Maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen your immune system
These steps not only lower your personal risk of illness, they also protect those in the community who are most vulnerable, such as older adults, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions.
Making Vaccination Easy for the Community
Graves Gilbert Clinic is making it as simple as possible to get protected this season. No appointment is necessary, most insurance plans cover the cost, and you just need to bring your ID and insurance card.
2025 Drive-thru Flu Clinic Dates:
· Main Campus – 201 Park Street
Sept. 8-Oct. 3 | Mon.-Fri. | 9am-4pm
· Family Care Center – 2724 Nashville Road
Sept. 29-Oct. 17 | Mon.-Fri. | 9am-4pm
Just drive in, roll up your sleeve, and take an important step toward a healthier fall and winter.
A Doctor Who Loves His Community
For Dr. Sternberg, connecting with patients goes beyond the exam room. “I enjoy learning from the unique perspectives and experiences of my patients,” he says. Outside the clinic, he can often be found enjoying Spencer’s Coffee, savoring a sandwich from The Meltdown, or picking apples at Jackson’s Orchard. He also enjoys family movie nights, dining at Bowling Green’s many great restaurants, and attending performances at SKyPAC.
His message this fall is clear: Don’t wait – get your flu shot early. “Vaccination is a small action with a big impact,” Dr. Sternberg says. “It’s one of the easiest ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
-submitted by Graves Gilbert Clinic
