Health Department announces Influenza is high throughout the state of Illinois

[December 30, 2014]  LINCOLN - Illinois is seeing influenza activity throughout the state. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, a total of 43 influenza outbreaks were reported last season (2013-2014) in comparison to 54 outbreaks already reported this season with the majority reported in the last 2 weeks.

Flu vaccinations are available at the Logan County Department of Public Health 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 high dose flu vaccine is now in stock at LCDPH and available to the public. Residents who are 65 and older now 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 regular seasonal flu vaccine is also available at 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 regular seasonal flu vaccine for persons without Medicare B and/or Medicaid is $28.00 for adults, 23.75 for children 6 months through 18 years who have no health insurance or health insurance that doesn’t cover vaccines.

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.

[Don Cavi, LCDPH Public Health Administrator]