“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we will likely have flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 both spreading this fall and winter,” said Public Health Director, Eric Faisst. Older adults (over age 65), those who are very young (under age 2), pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions are at greatest risk of developing flu-related complications. Healthcare providers could become overwhelmed treating both patients with flu and patients with COVID-19.
While the flu shot will not protect against COVID-19, it will lower the risk of flu illness and hospitalization and can help save lives. The more people are vaccinated for the flu, the less likely it is for the disease to be spread to others. This means getting a flu shot is more important than ever to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
“The good news is that with a flu shot, people who are young and healthy can help protect people in these high-risk groups from the flu,” said Eric Faisst. For people ages 6 months and older, the best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get the flu shot every year. It takes two weeks for your body to build protection against the flu virus. October is the best time to get your flu shot before flu season begins. Vaccination is currently the most effective strategy for preventing influenza infection, reducing the severity of illness, and saving lives during seasonal outbreaks and pandemics.
Madison County Health Department urges everyone 6 months and older to get their flu shot. The Health Department is holding Flu & Immunization Clinics in October by appointment-only from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm on:
October 1 (Thursday)
October 6 (Tuesday)
October 27 (Tuesday)
Clinics will be held at the Health Department, 138 North Street, Building 5, in Wampsville. Face masks are required and all COVID-19 safety guidelines are followed to protect staff and the public. Visit www.healthymadisoncounty.org to find out what other vaccines you and your family need.