Are You Ready for Flu?

Tuesday, October 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Orcas Senior Center

— from Joanne Runyan, RN, San Juan County Public Health —

It’s that time of year once again…flu season!

Flu is unpredictable and how severe it is can vary widely from one season to the next. Anyone can get sick with the flu, but certain people are at greater risk for serious complications, causing hospitalization or even death. Those at greater risk are: older people ( >50 years ), infants and children younger than 5 years, people with chronic lung disease, diabetes, and certain other long-term conditions, pregnant women, and severely obese people. Every year thousands of healthy adults and children have to visit the doctor or are hospitalized from flu complications.

The first and most important step in protecting against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season. The CDC recommends a three step approach to fighting the flu. First, everyone over six months of age and older should receive an influenza vaccine. Second, use everyday preventive actions such as thorough hand washing, covering your cough, staying home when you are sick. And, third, use antiviral drugs if recommended by your doctor.

Getting a flu vaccine is easy, and it is the single best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu. Get vaccinated early and stay protected throughout the flu season. The flu vaccines will be offered in many locations throughout the county.

FLU CLINICS —

Shaw Community Center: Monday, October 13, 10:30 – 2:30pm

Mullis Senior Center: Wednesday, October 15, 1 – 4 pm ( sponsored by San Juan Health Care )

Orcas Senior Center: Tuesday, October 21, 10am-2pm (sponsored by Orcas Family Health)

Peace Island Clinic: Thursday and Friday, October 30 and 31, 9am-4pm

San Juan Health Care Associates ( 378-1338 ) and Peace Island Clinic ( 378-2141 ) will be offering routinely scheduled appointments. The San Juan County Health Department in Friday Harbor will also be offering community Flu Clinic days on October 6, 10, 15, 17, 20, 22; call 378-4474 for appointments. The San Juan County Health Department will also be offering flu clinics for the county school children.