Officials urge public to get vaccine as flu season starts

When you get sick, particularly if you’re in a high risk group, in order to get the best treatment results and prevent serious complications you should obtain antiviral drugs within 48 hours.

“But even younger, healthy people can get seriously ill”, she said.

“On top of that, most health insurances cover the cost of the shot”, said Santoski, “but if they don’t, the shot still only costs $30 dollars”. Bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinus or ear infections are examples of flu complications.

The health department offers flu vaccine for children in the form of a nasal spray for children ages 2-18 years. and in the form of a shot for children, 6 months to 35 months of age.

The Kentucky Department for Public Health also is encouraging people to get vaccinated in keeping with recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that most people ages 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine. Vaccines are developed each year based on research that identifies which strains of influenza are most likely to be prevalent. “We’re hoping that it’s a better match this year”.

The CDC estimates that the country can produce 176 million doses of vaccine so roughly half the population could be vaccinated. Three out of the four companies that manufacture flu shots are experiencing a few shipping delays. People allergic to eggs can get an egg-free vaccine, and seniors can get a high-dose vaccine, Grohskopf said. Yes, flu season has returned once again.

For most people, there are many opportunities to get a flu shot: from doctors’ offices to walk-in clinics, from mobile locations to local pharmacies. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop protection from the flu, according to the CDC. But I would encourage them that they should go ahead and get the injectible at this time to make sure they’re safe.

Kentucky’s flu season typically begins in October or early November.

If you haven’t received a flu shot, visit a free drive-thru flu clinic sponsored by the Franklin County Health Department from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the Commonwealth Credit Union, 1425 Louisville Road.