JEFFERSON CO. -- If you haven't gotten your flu shot yet, there's still time. The Jefferson County Health Department is encouraging everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated.
The CDC is calling this week National Influenza Vaccination Week, a week-long push to get people vaccinated before the peak in the flu season. It usually peaks in January or February and can last as late as May.
There are three strains of the flu expected to circulate this season. This year's vaccination protects against all three strains. Everyone 6-months-old and older is being urged to get the shot to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu.
Most people who get the flu feel crummy for a few days, but most recover in a week or so. Some people, however, develop complications like pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Those at greater risk of developing complications include children younger than 5, but especially those younger than 2-years-old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women as well as American Indians and Alaskan Natives.
People with the following medical conditions may be at greater risk of developing complications as well:
*Asthma
*Neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions
*Chronic lung disease
*Heart disease
*Blood disorders (such as sickle cell disease)
*Diabetes
*Kidney disorders
*Liver disorders
*Metabolic disorders
*Weakened immune system due to disease or medication
*People younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
*People who are morbidly obese (Body Mass Index, or BMI, of 40 or greater)
Jefferson County Public Health Service offers flu vaccinations at the immunization clinic every Wednesday from 12:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. at 531 Meade St, Watertown NY. The cost is $35 for adults and $5 per family for children younger than 19.
For more information, click here or call (315) 786-37320.
