VNA of Fox Valley to offer flu shot clinics
VNA of Fox Valley launches its annual flu shot clinic program Saturday, Sept. 25, and Sunday, Sept. 26, during The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run in St. Charles.
"When deciding when to get a flu shot, I urge people to consider the fact that the peak flu season in Illinois occurs in January and February," says Dr. Robert Manam, VNA's medical director.
It takes about two weeks after receiving a flu shot for the antibodies to develop and provide protection against infection.
"I recommend that most people get their flu shot in the early fall. Studies do not show a benefit of receiving more than one dose of vaccine during a flu season, even among the elderly," Manam said.
Joyce Baudouin of Oswego always gets her flu shot from VNA in October.
"I make it a point to get my flu shot from VNA because I trust their nurses. They make me feel comfortable and always take time to answer any questions I have."
VNA of Fox Valley has long been considered one of the professionals in providing child and adult immunizations. All VNA flu shot clinics are staffed by registered nurses, who are specially trained to provide shots and screen patients for any contraindications.
VNA nurses have administered more than 250,000 flu shots since the program began. Proceeds from the flu shot program are used to fund medical care at the agency's health centers for those who are unable to pay.
For 2010, VNA will conduct 85 public flu shot clinics in 40 different communities in Kane, Kendall, DuPage, McHenry, Lake, and Will counties.
VNA's community flu shot schedule is posted on its website, www.vnafoxvalley.org/flu-shot.html, and will be inserted into local newspapers as well. Those who are homebound and in need of a flu vaccine are encouraged to contact VNA's Customer Care Department at (630) 978-2532 for details on VNA's at-home immunization service.
The "kickoff" clinic will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1, in the lower level by Carson Pirie Scott at Charlestowne Mall, 3800 E. Main St. in St. Charles.
Immunization costs are as follows: flu shot, $25; pneumonia shot, $50; and Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) shot, $35. VNA accepts cash, checks, payable to VNA of Fox Valley, or Medicare Part B for flu and pneumonia shots.