Influenza (Flu) Information
Public Health is offering flu immunization at the Public Health Clinic in Eureka. The cost of the flu shot is $17, although no one will be turned away for inability to pay. Medicare is accepted. Flu immunization is offered by appointment only.
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious, respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and sometimes death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more information about current and past flu seasons.
Even children and adults who typically enjoy very good health can become sick from the flu. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. Health experts recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated annually, especially those who might be at higher risk for serious complications from the flu, such as:
Influenza spreads mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by infected people. Good health habits will offer protection. Health officials recommend practicing the “3 Cs”: Clean your hands, Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and Contain your germs by staying home if you get sick.
Ways to stay healthy and to keep those around you healthy:
Even if you don’t regularly visit the doctor, you can get a flu vaccine. Flu vaccines can now be found in supermarkets, pharmacies and other sites besides doctors’ offices.
What is the flu?
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious, respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and sometimes death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more information about current and past flu seasons.
How do I prevent the flu?
Even children and adults who typically enjoy very good health can become sick from the flu. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. Health experts recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated annually, especially those who might be at higher risk for serious complications from the flu, such as:
- People 65 years and older
- Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
- People with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological conditions
- Pregnant women.
What other ways can I protect against the flu?
Influenza spreads mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by infected people. Good health habits will offer protection. Health officials recommend practicing the “3 Cs”: Clean your hands, Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and Contain your germs by staying home if you get sick.
Ways to stay healthy and to keep those around you healthy:
- Cover your cough. The droplets from a cough or sneeze can spray up to six feet through the air.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water-- viruses can be found on surfaces like desks, phones and remote controls.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Stay home from work or school if you get sick, and avoid contact with others who may be sick.
10 minutes to get your flu vaccine
Even if you don’t regularly visit the doctor, you can get a flu vaccine. Flu vaccines can now be found in supermarkets, pharmacies and other sites besides doctors’ offices.