LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. —
The influenza season is upon us and the Laurel County Health Department (LCHD) is urging all Laurel County citizens to get their annual vaccination. The health department began delivering flu shots this week on Tuesday, Sept. 4.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends individuals six months of age and older receive an annual flu shot. Vaccination is particularly important for people suffering from chronic health conditions, pregnant women, and seniors age 65 and up, said LCHD Executive Director Mark Hensley.
Each year, the seasonal influenza vaccine contains three viruses — one influenza A (H3N2) virus, one influenza A (H1N1) virus and one influenza B virus. The H1N1 virus from 2009 will continue to be included in the 2011-12 seasonal flu vaccine because scientists believe the virus strain is still circulating in the U.S. Side effects of the vaccine reported include soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was administered. Side effects should not last more than one to two days.
The CDC and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are closely monitoring the safety of the seasonal influenza and other vaccines licensed for use in the U.S., in cooperation with state and local health departments, health care providers and other partners. Those who have severe allergies to chicken eggs or any other substance in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.
If you have already received the vaccine, take further preventative action by washing your hands often with soap and water. In addition, avoid close contact with the infected, and, if you are sick, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
The Laurel County Health Department will administer flu shots Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Medicare, Medicaid, Humana and private pay are excepted. Shots are $25 or a co-pay. For more information, call the health department at 606-878-7754.
To stay informed during the flu season, visit Flu.gov.
mmccrarey@sentinel-echo.com
Local News
September 10, 2012
Time for flu shots
Health Dept. urges citizens to get vaccinated
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