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Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department is reminding Kalamazoo County residents to prepare for the upcoming flu season by getting vaccinated against the influenza virus.
Health officials recommend that every person six months and older get the annual vaccine, especially certain groups considered at the highest risk, such as young children, pregnant women, adults who have chronic health conditions, or adults over the age of fifty.
They go onto remind residents that the flu season typically starts in October and can last as late as May. They say also that the flu shot takes approximately two weeks to provide full protection against the influenza virus. Therefore, it is recommended that residents receive their vaccine before the holiday season begins.
“We understand that people may be tired of hearing about respiratory illnesses. This flu season, however, has the potential to be one of the worst we have seen in recent years,” said Kalamazoo County Health Officer Jim Rutherford. “Based on data we have seen from Australia, the flu season started earlier than normal, and children aged 5 to 9 made up the largest number of cases. The influenza vaccine is a safe and effective way to reduce illness, school or work absences, hospital stays, and death due to the flu. We encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine this year to protect themselves personally, as well as to protect our community.”
The health department recommends these tips to help stop the spread of flu or other germs:
- Stay home when you are sick, which will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean your hands often, with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department offers flu vaccinations Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.