As residents begin moving into the winter months, the risk of catching the flu increases.
Mineral County Health Nurse Wanda Nixon would like to remind those who were unable to attend the recent free flu clinic, provided by her clinic, to stop by the community health office to receive the vaccine as soon as they have the opportunity.
The most vulnerable groups – children, senior citizens and pregnant women – should receive the shot as soon as it is convenient for them.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that the flu vaccine is the most effective way to avoid getting influenza and projects up to 179 million doses of the flu vaccine will be available in the United States for the 2015-2016 flu season, which normally begins in October and peaks during the winter months.
The CDC also recommends a flu vaccine for anyone six months of age and older. Steps can be taken to prevent the spread of germs such as limiting contact with those who are sick, washing hands and staying home from work or school if sick with flu like symptoms.
Nixon concluded, “I would like to thank the many agencies and individuals who assisted in making this event possible.”
