Health Department Offers Annual Flu Vaccine

The Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center will begin offering flu and pneumonia vaccinations to the general public on September 19. The vaccine will be available by appointment only at the Health Department's Immunizations Annex at 2303 Dodge Avenue in Waukegan. Please call (847) 377-8470 to make an appointment or for more information.

“Just as last year, this year's annual flu vaccine provides protection against H1N1 as well as two other flu strains,” said Irene Pierce, the Health Department's Executive Director. “A flu vaccination is important because it protects you and others around you from getting influenza.”

The Health Department is offering two types of flu vaccine: the flu shot, which is given with a needle, and the nasal spray, which is sprayed into the nose. While anyone 6 months of age or older can receive the shot, the nasal spray vaccine (LAIV) is for healthy persons 2-49 years old who are not pregnant.

It is important that persons 65 and over bring their Medicare part B cards with them as it will cover the cost of the flu and pneumonia vaccines. Medicaid and All Kids will also be accepted. Fees are $35.00 for the flu vaccine and $65.00 for the pneumonia vaccine. Children 18 years of age and younger who have no insurance, or whose insurance does not fully cover the cost of vaccines, may receive a flu shot for $15.00.

Unlike previous years when vaccination was recommended only to certain categories, public health officials now recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older should be vaccinated against influenza, especially pregnant women, young children, people 65 years of age and older, and anyone with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. Vaccine manufacturers are predicting an ample supply of influenza vaccine for the coming season.

The Health Department is encouraging residents to remember these important health recommendations:

• The most important step in protecting against the flu is getting an annual flu vaccine.

• Take everyday preventive steps, such as staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs.

• If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading influenza to others.

While the Health Department is not coordinating flu clinics in a wide variety of locations this year, the flu vaccine is available at pharmacies and other facilities throughout Lake County. For more information, visit: www.lakecountyflu.com or contact the Health Department at: (847) 377-8470.