Flu vaccinations convenience made easier

No one enjoys getting the flu, and for some people getting the flu can make you dangerously sick. To protect yourself and those around you, getting a flu vaccination is the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

St. Joseph’s Area Health Services Community Health Manager, Raeann Mayer, wants the public to know that there are many convenient places for getting flu vaccinations this season.

“Gone are the days of the offering of flu shots at community clinics,” says Mayer. “Flu vaccinations are available where you shop, where you buy your groceries, at schools, through your primary care provider, and, where available, at work.” As a prime example, Mayer received her flu vaccination as a St. Joseph’s employee this week.

The flu vaccine theme from the CDC this year is “No More Excuses: You need a Flu Vaccine.“ With all of the places to get your flu vaccine, it should be easier than ever for everyone to receive one.

“It is important to remember that anyone can get the flu, and it can be serious,” Mayer says. “So every year, we need to protect ourselves and those around us by getting a flu vaccine.”

The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older should get flu vaccine this year, even if you received one last year. Getting a flu shot (or nasal spray) helps protect you from getting the flu, so you won’t pass it to people who risk getting very sick &##8211; such as babies, pregnant women, elderly people, and people who have chronic diseases.

Those most at risk for becoming seriously ill from the flu include:

• people age 65 and older
• young children
• pregnant women
• people with certain health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease
• African Americans, Hispanics, and Native peoples

Influenza or the flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can be prevented by immunization. It is not the same as the “stomach flu.” Influenza is caused by a virus that attacks the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.

Influenza symptoms come on quickly in the form of fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, extreme tiredness, stuffed-up nose, and body aches. These symptoms can be severe and put you in bed for several days.

St. Joseph’s Community Health provides adult vaccinations and adult health screenings for anyone ages 19 and older. Called “First Thursdays,” these services are available the first Thursday of every month from 9-11 a.m. and 12:30-2 p.m. at 323 Main Ave. in Park Rapids. For more information on this program, please call 218-237-5463.