Health department will hold flu clinics in October
Time to prepare for flu season
By Anne Marie Kyzer Staff Writer

It's that time again.

Though it doesn't quite feel like fall yet, flu season will soon be here. Getting vaccinated now could make all the difference.

To help local residents prepare, the Burke County Health Department (BCHD) will hold flu clinics each Friday in October (October 6-27).

Staff will administer flu shots and immunizations at the clinics, which will be held at the BCHD's facility on Dogwood Drive in Waynesboro.

No appointment is needed to attend a clinic, and there is no cost for the vaccine if patients are covered by Medicare or Medicaid. Otherwise, the flu shots cost $20 each.

The health department doesn't anticipate any shortages in the vaccine this year, according to Gina Richardson of the BCHD. They have ordered about 800-1,000 doses.

For more information about the flu clinics or shots, contact Richardson or Barbara Ann Hammett at the BCHD at 706-554-3456.
                            FLU FACTS
                              What is the flu?
The flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza
viruses. It can cause mild to serious illness. The best way to
prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each fall.
                                Symptoms:
                                     Fever
                                   Headache
                             Extreme tiredness
                                 Dry cough
                                 Sore throat
                           Runny or stuffy nose
                               Muscle aches
               Stomach symptoms, such as nausea,
                          vomiting and diarrhea
                          Who is at high risk?
Older people, young children and people with certain health
conditions are at high risk for serious flu complications.
                        When to get vaccinated:
October or November is the best time, but getting vaccinated in
December can still be beneficial. Usually, the most flu activity
occurs in January or later.
                  Source:         Center       for   Disease         Control