Flu Shots

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a flu virus. There are several types of flu viruses, including the type A and B, that circulate throughout the United States and the world every year. The flu isn't always thought of as a serious or life-threatening illness. However, because of the complications it can have on the elderly, children, and those with health problems, the perception of the flu and it's severity is changing.

It is estimated that 25 to 50 million cases of the flu are reported in the United States each year. Up to 20% of the population in this country becomes infected with the flu, leading to 150,000 hospitalizations and causing 30,000 to 40,000 deaths each flu season, which typically lasts from November to March. However, there are actions a person can take to prevent the flu.

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Seasonal Flu Vaccine:
The single best way to protect oneself from the flu is to get a flu shot. the seasonal flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses that researchers have predicted will be the most common during the upcoming season. The virus antigens in the vaccine change each year based upon international surveillance and scientific estimations about which types and strains of viruses will circulate. About 2 weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop and provide protection against influenza virus infection. 

2014-2015 Influenza Vaccine Information Statement 

To save time complete and print your consent form here and bring it with you to the health department.
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When to get the flu vaccination:
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now says that yearly flu vaccination should begin or as soon as vaccine becomes available, and continue throught the flu season, into December, January, and even beyond, because the timing and duration of influenza activity can vary. Usually flu activity peaks in January or later, however influenza outbreaks have occured as early as October.

Who should get a flu shot:

 
Everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season. However, vaccination is especially important for those who are considered to be at high risk of having serious flu-related complications. This group includes:
  • Pregnant women 
  • Children 6months to 5 years of age
  • People 50 years of age and older
  • People of any age with chronic medical conditions
  • Those who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
  • People who live with or care for those who are high risk for flu complications. This includes health care workers and household contacts of high risk individuals or newborns
Who should not be vaccinated:
There are some people who should not get a flu vaccine without first consulting their physician. These include:
  • People who have a severe allergy to eggs
  • People who have had a severe reaction to a flu shot
  • People who developed Guilain-Barre' syndrone within six weeks after getting a flu shot
  • Children less than 6 monts of age. (flu vaccine is not licensed for this age group)
  • Those with a moderate to severe illness with a fever (wait until recovered from illness)
Flu shot clinics:

  • Flu shots are available

     every Monday during office hours for the very low cost of only $25.00. In addition, walk-in clients on other days will accomodated provided nursing staff is available. To save time complete and print your consent form here and bring it to the health department. 
The health department is able to bill Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. In addition, we do accept debit/credit cards, personal checks, and cash is always welcome.

If you are interested in having the health department come to your place of business for employee's flu shots please call 785-628-9440 and we will get you scheduled. 

Last Updated: 09/03/2014
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