Health department plans additional flu shot clinics

To be sure that all residents have an opportunity to get the flu shot, McHenry County Department of Health is holding additional clinics at several times and locations throughout the county.

People can make appointments at (815) 334-4510 or online at www.mcdh.info.

The cost is $35; Medicaid and Medicare Part B are accepted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages an annual flu shot for everyone six months and older as the best protection against influenza.

Get your flu shot at these clinic locations:

• Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Sage YMCA, 701 Manor Road, Crystal Lake; must be age 9 or older.

• Thursday, Nov. 5, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at MCDH Woodstock, 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock; must be age 9 or older.

• Friday, Nov. 6, from 9:45 to 11:15 a.m. at Senior Services, 110 W. Woodstock St., Crystal Lake; for seniors only.

• Tuesday, Nov. 10, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at MCDH Crystal Lake 100 N. Virginia St., Crystal Lake; must be age 9 or older.

Flu is a serious and contagious illness; even healthy people can get it. A flu shot protects you and those around you like pregnant women, young children, people with chronic health conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease, etc.) and people 65 and older who are especially at risk for complications from the flu.

The CDC recommends getting your flu shot early because the flu season is long and unpredictable. It takes two weeks for antibodies to develop to provide protection. Simple ways to protect yourself also include covering your cough, washing your hands and staying home when sick.

For more information on protecting yourself from influenza, visit the CDC at www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm.