for seasonal influenza vaccinations.
Health Department staff will administer the seasonal flu vaccine in
both immunization clinics at 249 Billingsley Road and 2845 Beatties
Ford Road. Appointments can be made by calling (704-336-6500). Cost of
the flu vaccine ranges from $30-$40, depending on the type of vaccine
chosen.
It's important to remember that seasonal flu happens every year,
starting in the fall and lasting through spring. This year, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that anyone
over the age of 6 months get a flu shot.
"The flu vaccine is the single most important way residents can
protect themselves from influenza," said Dr. Wynn Mabry, Mecklenburg
County health director.
This year, the flu shot is a combined vaccine and incorporates the
H1N1 strain, as well as the seasonal flu vaccine. This means everyone
over 9 years old will need just 1 shot. Everyone under 9 years, who
did not get the flu vaccine last year, will need 2 shots.
Certain groups are at a higher risk of complications from seasonal
influenza. This includes residents 65 years and older, children less
than 5 years of age, pregnant women, and anyone with certain chronic
medical conditions.
Because flu viruses change each year, it is important to receive the
flu vaccine annually. It takes about two weeks following the
vaccination to develop protection against the flu so the sooner you
get it, the better.
The Health Department is only one of many options for getting a
seasonal flu shot. Many drug and grocery stores, private physician
offices, and minor emergency clinics are also offering the vaccine.
Prevention can help you and those around you stay healthy this flu
season. Go back to basics:
· Frequent hand washing
· Covering your cough with a tissue or your sleeve
· Staying home when you are sick
Residents can find much more information about the flu and protecting
one's family, along with a fee schedule for immunizations, on our
website at www.meckhealth.org. Just click on flu shots.
