Health department to offer influenza vaccine

[September 03, 2011]  Beginning Tuesday, the Logan County Department of Public Health will offer influenza vaccine to individuals 6 months of age and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive the influenza vaccine this year.

"Receiving an annual influenza vaccination is the best prevention measure you can take to protect yourself and those around you against the flu," according to Dianna Heyer, director of nursing at the health department.

The hours for vaccinations at the health department are Monday through Friday from 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.

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.

The Logan County Department of Public Health recommends that you take everyday precautions to stay healthy.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

• Stay home if you get sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Following this public health advice can prevent the spread of influenza as well as other viruses that cause respiratory infections.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Department of Public Health]