Influenza (flu) is a contagious disease that spreads around the United States every year, usually between October and May. Flu is caused by influenza viruses and is spread mainly by coughing, sneezing and close contact. Anyone can get flu. Flu strikes suddenly and can last several days. Symptoms vary by age, but can include:
•Fever/chills
•Sore throat
•Muscle aches
•Fatigue
•Cough
•Headache
•Runny or stuffy nose
Flu can lead to pneumonia and blood infections and cause diarrhea and seizures in children. If you have a medical condition, such as heart or lung disease, flu can make it worse. Flu is more dangerous for some people. Infants and young children, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions or a weakened immune system are at greatest risk. Each year thousands of people in the United States die from flu, and many more are hospitalized. Flu vaccine can:
•Keep you from getting flu,
•Make flu less severe if you do get it, and
•Keep you from spreading flu to your family and other people.
The single best way to prevent flu is to receive a flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone over 6 months of age receive a vaccine, but particularly among those who are high risk.
The Champaign Health District will have a Flu Clinic 3-7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 5, at the Champaign Health District, 1512 S. U.S. Route 68, Urbana. Cost for the flu vaccine will range from $20.50 to $43. Have your insurance card, Medicare B card, Medicaid card and/or cash/check ready to provide. Most insurance providers are accepted. Children and adults are invited to receive the flu vaccine. This is a walk-in clinic as well as a drive-thru clinic.
The Champaign Health District will host a Children’s Flu Clinic 4-7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, at the Champaign Health District. Both children and adults may receive flu vaccine at this clinic.
Not only will you protect yourself and your loved ones, but you will help your Champaign Health District test its emergency preparedness activities.
