Health Department announces Influenza (Flu) vaccine available

[September 20, 2014]  LINCOLN - The Logan County Department of Public Health (LCDPH) has started their seasonal flu vaccine roll-out for persons 6 months and older. Flu vaccinations are available at the LCDPH walk-in clinic, located at 109 Third Street, Lincoln. The walk-in clinic hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The flu vaccine is no cost to all Medicare B and Medicaid recipients. The Medicare B and/or Medicaid card must be presented at the time of vaccination. The cost of the flu vaccine for persons without Medicare B and/or Medicaid is $28.00 for adults and 23.75 for children 6 months through 18 years who have no health insurance or health insurance that doesn’t cover vaccines.

Residents who are 65 and older will have a choice of the regular seasonal flu vaccine or the high dose flu vaccine which is $45.00 or no charge with a Medicare B card. The LCDPH recommends talking with your doctor about which type is best for you. The LCDPH anticipates shipment of the high dose vaccine on or after September 30, 2014 and recommends calling prior to arrival to check for availability.

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 (CDC) 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 received: LOGAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH]