Horn Memorial Community Health Offers Flu Clinics
Now is the time to prepare for the flu season. Horn Memorial
Community Health will be offering flu shot clinics:
Friday,
October 11 9:00 a.m. to
12:00 p.m. HMH Community Health Office
Tuesday, October
15 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Battle Creek Community Center
Wednesday, October
16 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Holstein Methodist Church
Tuesday, October
22 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. HMH Community Health Office
A Medicare card or Medicare Advantage Plan card is
required. There will be a charge for private pay. If you are homebound and would like to
receive the flu shot, please call Horn Memorial Community Health at 364-7311.
Getting an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to
protect yourself and your family from the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu
illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as
prevent flu-related hospitalizations.
The flu is different from a cold. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness
caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can
lead to death. The flu usually comes on
suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose,
body aches, headaches, fatigue and though more common in children than adults
vomiting and diarrhea.
People with flu can spread it to others up to about six feet
away. Most experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made
when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the
mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly inhaled into the lungs.
Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that
has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose. To avoid this, people should stay away from
sick people and stay home if sick.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends annual vaccination for all people ages 6 months
and older who do not have a contraindication to the vaccine. While the flu vaccine is the best defense
against getting influenza, it’s also important to take personal actions to help
prevent the spread of illness. Remember
the 3Cs: Cover your coughs and sneezes; Clean your hands frequently; and
Contain germs by staying home when ill.
