Health department schedules more flu vaccination clinics

There is still time to get your flu shot before the holiday get-togethers with family and friends. As flu cases have already been reported in the county, college students returning home for the Christmas break are also reminded to get the flu vaccine.

McHenry County Department of Health has scheduled additional vaccination clinics to protect residents against the flu. The cost is $30; Medicaid and Medicare Part B accepted.

Appointments for adults and children 9 and older can be made by calling (815) 334-4510 or visiting www.mcdh.info for these clinics from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, and Monday, Dec. 29, at McHenry County Department of Health office, 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months and older. Even healthy people can get the flu. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

The flu vaccine protects not only you but those around you who are most vulnerable like pregnant women, young children, people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and people 65 and older who are especially at risk for complications from the flu.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the immune system to build the antibodies the body needs to protect against flu virus infection. 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/keyfacts.htm.