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Don't Take the Risk - There's Plenty to Go Around
Flu Shots Now Available at FMC
Unlike the last couple of years, there is plenty of flu vaccine to go around. This is good news for everyone. Because of the abundant supply, medical professionals can give the vaccine to anyone who asks without having to first consider those in high-risk categories.
You have no excuse. The vaccine is available.
“We have plenty of vaccine to go around,” said Angie Schott of
Schott indicated concerns over the reluctance of children being vaccinated for the flu. “There is some evidence that school-age children are beginning to become the biggest risk at getting the flu,” said Schott. “It is very important for school age children to be vaccinated.” She added anyone in all age groups should, however, consider getting the vaccination.
Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times even lead to death. The flu is not a cold, and you can tell that because the flu usually comes on suddenly and may include usually high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea can also occur but are more common in children than adults.
According to the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) every year in the
- 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu;
- more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and;
- about 36,000 people die from the flu.
The best ways to prevent the flu is by adopting good health habits and take the time to get vaccinated every year. Some studies indicate resistance to flu viruses increase when flu shots are received in consecutive years.
Getting a flu shot from