Flu season has started so it’s time for a shot

Staff report
TheStatehouseFile.com

INDIANAPOLIS— Cases of influenza are beginning to emerge across the state and the Indiana State Health Department is encouraging Hoosiers to get themselves and their families vaccinated.

Since 2015, 800 Hoosiers have died from flu related illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccinations for the influenza virus by the end of October because it takes two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body and begin fighting off the influenza virus.

“Although we can’t predict how severe our flu season will be, we are already seeing influenza activity in Indiana, so it’s important that Hoosiers take steps quickly to protect themselves and their loved ones,” Dr. Kris Box, state health commission, said in a news release. “Flu can be deadly, especially in vulnerable populations, so the time to take those protective measures is now.”

Everyone six months and older should get vaccinated, especially those who live with young children or those who work as health care providers.

Flu shots can be obtained through your primary care provider or through many pharmacies such as CVS or Walgreens.

Other precautions to take to avoid spreading the flu virus include washing your hands often, avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth and staying home when you feel sick.

Influenza is a viral infection of the respiratory tract and symptons include fever, headache, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, sore throat or runny or stuffy nose.

Pregnant women, young children, people with chronic illnesses, immuno-compromised people, and the elderly are considered high risk for flu-related illnesses including pneumonia or death.

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