The weather still may feel like summer, but flu season is here, and it’s never too early to get vaccinated.
The Liberty County Health Department now has flu vaccines available to the general public. Cost for both the injectable shot and nasal-spray form is $25. A high-dose flu vaccine also is being offered to people ages 65 and older. It is designed to provide the best protection for that age group. The high-dose vaccine costs $40 per dose.
Getting vaccinated against the flu is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Neither the flu shot nor the nasal spray can cause the flu. The shot is approved for use in healthy people 6 months and older, people with chronic medical conditions and pregnant women. The nasal spray is approved for healthy people ages 2 to 49 years who are not pregnant.
The flu virus easily is spread through coughs and sneezes and by touching something with the virus on it and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. That’s why good health habits also are important. When you are sick, stay home. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow and not your hand. Wash hands often with soap and water, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Adults who visit the health department or their health-care provider to get the flu vaccine are encouraged to ask about additional vaccinations that can help protect them from potentially harmful diseases. A questionnaire about recommended adult vaccines can be found by going to www.gachd.org and clicking on the “Immunizations and Vaccinations” link under the Quick Links menu. The questionnaire is listed under the “Adult Immunizations” header.