Health officials are warning that this could be one of worst flu seasons in nearly a decade, yet Long Islanders seem to have mixed reactions to rolling up their sleeves for the flu shot.

Doctors say it's not too late and it's important to get the flu shot, especially as the holidays approach and the flu case numbers are increasing.

"We're not looking at Armageddon here, but we are looking at a potentially serious tri-demic, if you wish, with RSV, flu and the new COVID variants potentially causing serious strain on the health care system," says Dr. Aaron Glatt, of Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital.

Recent data from New York state shows 1,235 lab-confirmed cases for Long Island through Oct. 29.

Glatt says during the COVID-19 pandemic, mask restrictions and social distancing limited a person's exposure to viruses. But now as restrictions are lifted, more people are susceptible to the flu and other viruses.

"So you have a lot of people that either haven't been exposed recently, may never have been exposed and that's the potential for much more serious infection," Glatt explains.

Health experts fear COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy may carry over into delays in individuals receiving their flu shot.

"People shouldn't be afraid of it. We've had decades of experience with it... It still is very, very protective in terms of severe disease," Glatt says.

Infectious disease experts say with the holidays approaching, there is concern about potential strain on hospitals – especially pediatric facilities.

Morty Robert, 96, says he is not taking any chances this flu season.

"I've gotten a flu shot every year," he says.

Glatt says it takes about two weeks to get the full benefit of the flu shot and that there is a stronger version suggested for those over 65 years old.