There is still time to get your flu
shot before the holiday get-togethers with family and friends. As the
County has reported a steady increase in reported flu cases, college students
returning home for the Christmas break are also reminded to get the flu
vaccine. McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) will host a flu
clinic to protect residents against the flu. Call 815-334-4510 to reserve your
appointment time or online at www.mcdh.info
from 4pm-6pm on Thursday, December 18, at its Woodstock office (2200 N Seminary
Avenue, Building A). The cost is $30; Medicaid and Medicare Part B
accepted.
The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months and older.
Even healthy people can get the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses,
doctors' visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent
flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. The flu vaccine protects not only you
but those around you who are most vulnerable like pregnant women, young
children, people with chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, heart
disease) and people 65 and older who are especially at risk for complications
from the flu.
It takes about two weeks after
vaccination for the immune system to build the antibodies the body needs to
protect against flu virus infection. Simple ways to protect yourself also
include covering your cough, washing your hands and staying home when
sick.
For
more information on protecting yourself from influenza, visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
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