Flu vaccines to be distributed for free to high-risk groups

Even when the vaccine is given in early fall, the protection provided by vaccination lasts through the entire flu season.

“We never know when flu season is going to hit”, she said.

Any changes to the flu vaccination clinic schedule will be announced on the flu shot information line at 320-255-6444.

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According to the CDC, last year’s vaccine was 23-percent effective because of mutations in the virus. There are many different flu viruses that circulate every year. Most seasonal flu activity typically occurs between October and May.

There will be a clinic on October. 8 at 1 p.m.

As flu vaccinations begin across the Ozarks, those in healthcare like Dr. Matthew Stinson of Jordan Valley Health, are reminded of last year’s flu season. It produces side effects in some people, although usually they are mild and temporary.

Additionally, the Helena health department will be available from noon to 4 p.m.to provide flu vaccines to family members of staff and veterans that are not eligible to receive the vaccine through the VA.

The sources they recommend most often are the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health.

Clark County Combined Health District Epidemiologist Gabe Jones said the emergence of the flu anywhere in the state over the summer is somewhat disturbing. “It’s definitely reasonable to get it at this point”. “There’s some reactiveness from one strain to the other and your body still sees it as a flu virus”.

“It’s likely not to wear off”, Neagoe said.

Other protection recommended by the CDC includes vaccination against human papillomavirus (which can cause certain cancers), meningococcal disease, hepatitis B, hepatitis A, chickenpox (varicella), and measles, mumps and rubella. Children, who may also experience vomiting, can be contagious for more than a week.

And, employees who participate in the worksite flu shot clinic likely have a generally positive attitude towards corporate wellness activities.