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Health officials encourage flu shots

Child sitting on her mothers lap after getting a vaccine

This article appeared in The Sault News. Read the full story here.

Fresh off a visit to St. Marys Catholic School, R.N. and Public Health Nurse Cindy Ockenfels was issuing her annual encouragement for local folks to get their flu shot.

“Influenza is one of the top ten deadliest viruses,” she said. “It’s crazy not to get the flu shot.”

With that in mind the Chippewa County Health Department has been visiting local elementary schools to dispense shots following Center for Disease Control recommendation to administer vaccines in the months of September and October. Ockenfels explained this is partially fueled by the desire to get ahead of the Thanksgiving Holiday where people do extensive traveling spreading the virus along the way.

“Michigan is one of the lowest states,” said Ockenfels estimating that approximately a quarter of the population receives the flu shot each year.

Older adults, Ockenfels added, are far more apt to get their annual vaccine.

“They remember what it’s like,” she said expressing the belief that those who have experienced the flu are much more likely to take preventative measures to avoid getting it again.

The Chippewa County Health Department reminds residents that vaccination is the best protection you and your children have against a wide variety of dangerous diseases and immunizations are available for more than just the flu shot. To set up an appointment call (906) 635-1566. Walk-ins are also welcome between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. during regular business days.

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You’ve got questions. That’s a good thing.

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