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TIME TO GET YOUR FLU SHOT
Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 -- 8:10 am
Posted by Riley Hebert-News Director
With the official start of fall just a few days away, health experts say it’s time to get your flu shot.
Influenza can really pack a punch. While the symptoms—fever, aching muscles, chills, headache, dry cough, fatigue and weakness—are similar to a cold, they come on quicker and can be more severe.
"Influenza can occur at anytime, but most influenza occurs between October and May," explains Brittany Boyer, a registered nurse with the Clark County Health Department. "In recent seasons, most infections have occurred in January and February."
This year’s vaccination includes protection against H1N1, H3N2 and Influenza “B.”
Many health care providers have already started offering the vaccines.
"Routine annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone six-months and older," Boyer explains. "It's especially important for those at higher risk for severe complications from influenza."
"Vaccinations should occur before the onset of influenza activity in the community," she says.
Despite myths to the contrary, there’s no risk of getting influenza from the vaccine, Boyer says.
Young children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions can suffer serious complications, even death, as a result of an infection.
The Clark County Health Department is starting their vaccination clinic schedule on October 3. You can call them at 715-743-5105 for more information.
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