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
Homepage
September 10, 2012
Time for flu shots
Health Dept. urges citizens to get vaccinated
- Local News
-
Green and blue hats filled the air as the 2013 North Laurel High School graduates celebrate their achievement during commencement exercises on Saturday morning.
- Local Sports
-
Marcus Carson holds up the 49th District championship trophy as his teammates celebrate after the Jaguars beat the Clay County Tigers, 6-3.
- Opinion
- Features
- Galleries
-
-
SLIDESHOW: Veterans Day 2012 in Laurel County
From school programs to community luncheons, Laurel County supports its veterans. See pictures of this year's Veterans Day celebrations.
- SLIDESHOW: 2012 Laurel County Halloween Happenings
- SLIDESHOW: Photos of the 2012 Camp Wildcat Civil War Re-enactment
- SLIDESHOW: Sandy delivers snow to East
- SLIDESHOW: Kentucky town prepares for vice presidential debate
-
- Crime
- Community Events
Sheriff: No Sign Killing of 2 Kids Was Planned
Obama Defends Drone Strikes, With Limits
Raw: Jurors Deadlock on Jodi Arias Penalty
Boy Scouts Decision "First Step" Say Activists
Raw: Utah Teen Arrested in Death of His Brothers
Closer Look at Okla. School Where Children Died
Two Suspects in Murder Known to London Police
Boy Scouts Mom Supports Gay Inclusiveness
"Be Ready": NOAA Warns of Busy Hurricane Season
SeaWorld: Penguins Are Coolest Thing in Florida
Obama Renews Call to Close Gitmo
Obama Offers Drone Strike Defense
Raw: Heckler Interrupts Obama on Guantanamo
A Slice of Apple History Up for Grabs
