Before you know it, we will be charging into the first week of December, our calendars will be filled with holiday parties, travel plans, and gift lists. As we prepare for these festive gatherings, there is one uninvited guest we must all work to avoid: influenza. The Knox County Health Department wants to remind residents that it is not too late to get a flu shot. We are offering the seasonal and high dose flu vaccine by appointment by calling 309-344-2224.
“We never know exactly when flu season will start, so getting your vaccine early and giving your body a couple of weeks to build up immunity gives you the best chance of preventing the misery the virus can bring, “Communicable Disease Coordinator Tammy Nelson, LPN said.
The Knox County Health Department said it considers certain age groups and conditions for those who could be at higher risk for developing flu-related complications. Those high-risk individuals include children under the age of 5, seniors over the age of 65, and those who are pregnant or living with chronic medical conditions.
According to the CDC, getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid getting sick and prevent serious illness and death related to influenza.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the flu vaccine for everyone aged six months and older. Those aged 65 years or older should receive the high-dose vaccine, which contains four times the antigen for each virus compared with standard-dose vaccines.
The cost of the flu vaccine ranges from $48-$123depending on vaccine type. Medicaid and Medicare, cash, check, and credit cards are accepted.
To prevent the flu individuals should continue to consciously practice preventative measures by following the 3C’s-
- Clean – wash your hands
- Cover– cover your cough and sneeze
- Contain– contain your germs- stay home if you are sick
For more information about the flu vaccine, to make an appointment, or how to protect yourself and your family from the flu; contact the Health Department at 309-344-2224.
