Flu
facts
From the Logan County Department of Public Health
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[February
29, 2012]
Flu is off to a late start this season.
The first week in February was the first time this flu season that
the percent of positive flu cases went over 10 percent, which
generally is an indicator that the flu season is starting. If you
have not received a flu vaccine yet this season, you should get your
vaccine now. It takes about two weeks after receiving your flu shot
for the body's immune response to fully kick in. Everyone 6 months
and older should receive a flu vaccine annually.
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Though still too early to tell for the season, so far, most of the
U.S. influenza viruses tested have been well-matched to the flu
vaccine. Most of these viruses have been influenza A viruses, H3N2,
but in recent weeks the proportions of 2009 H1N1 viruses have been
increasing, particularly in states bordering Mexico.
Flu seasons vary every year and are unpredictable as to when the
season starts, when it peaks and when it ends. Flu season can begin
as early as October and last as late as May. With positive flu cases
starting to appear in Logan County and more rapidly across the
United States, getting a flu vaccine now can still prevent you and
your loved ones from getting the flu.
The hours for vaccines at the health department are Monday
through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. No appointment is required.
The influenza vaccine will also be available on the HOPE Mobile
during its regularly scheduled stops.
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The cost of the seasonal flu shot is $30 for adults, $16.75 for
children 6 months through 18 years of age who have no health
insurance or health insurance that doesn't cover vaccines, and free
to those with a Medicaid or Medicare card.
For more information on the seasonal influenza vaccine, call the
Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.
For more information, visit
www.cdc.gov and www.lcdph.org.
[Text from file received from the
Logan County Department of Public
Health] |