It's' Not Too Late for That Flu Shot
Dickinson County Public Health (DCPH) joins the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in recognizing National Influenza Vaccination Week December 4-10. The CDC established National Influenza Vaccination Week in 2005 to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.
Flu vaccination coverage traditionally drops off quickly after the end of November because many people believe getting vaccinated after that time is too late. “That’s simply not true,” said DCPH Manager Cyndy Powers. “As long as flu viruses are circulating, people can get sick. We know flu activity generally peaks in January or February and lasts into the spring, so it is definitely not too late to get a vaccination.” It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body’s immune response to provide full protection. “With flu activity increasing and family and friends gathering for the holidays, now is a great time to get a flu vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones,” said Powers.
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. While the flu vaccine is the best defense against getting influenza, it’s also important to take personal actions to help prevent the spread of illness. Remember the 3Cs: cover your coughs and sneezes, clean your hands frequently, and contain germs by staying home when ill.
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. It spreads easily from person to person and can cause mild to severe illness. The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days. Influenza may cause severe illness or complications in people such as the very young or very old, or those who have underlying health conditions.
More information about influenza can be found at www.idph.state.ia.us/Cade/Influenza.aspx or by calling DCPH at 712-336-2682.
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