Hart County Health Department Still Has Plenty of Flu Vaccine Available

The holiday season is upon us and the Hart County Health Department reminds everyone who has not yet been vaccinated to get your flu shot now.

Flu shots are available at the health department on Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Also, on the first Tuesday of each month the health department observes extended hours and flu shots will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

The “high-dose” flu vaccine approved for people age 65 and older is also still available and is covered by Medicare.

The health department also has a supply of Vaccines for Children (VFC) flu shots available for those who qualify. Call the health department for information about VFC.

The flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older who can get the vaccine.

“I would encourage folks to go ahead and get the flu vaccine because it is the best protection against flu,” he said. “The best way to prevent flu is to prevent the spread of germs. We do that by washing our hands, covering our face when we cough or sneeze and to stay home when we are sick.”

Dave Palmer with District Two Health says there are other ways to stop the spread of the flu virus.

Cleaning and disinfecting common surfaces in your home and work area can also limit the spread of germs.

If you experience flu symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue – see your healthcare provider.

If you have the flu, your healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medicine which can make the illness milder and shorten the time you are sick.