If you haven’t caught the flu this year, you’re not in the clear - according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu season can extend into May.
The Lorain County General Health District (LCGHD) said in Lorain County in 2012, there were 166 flu cases reported, a dramatic increase from the 18 cases seen in 2011.
“The yearly flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses and the good news is you can still get your shot at locations throughout Lorain County,” the LCGHD said on its flu website, LorainCountyFlu.com, which lists information as well as clinics, participating local pharmacies and grocery stores. You may also get your flu shot at any LCGHD Immunization Clinic this month.
According to Flu View, most of the United States, including Ohio, is reporting widespread flu activity.
LCGHD January Child Immunization Clinics:
- Tuesday, Jan. 8: 4 pm - 6:30 pm
Vincent Elementary School, 2303 North Ridge Road, Sheffield Township
- Wednesday, Jan. 9: 3 pm - 5:30 pm
Grafton Community Room, 1050 Novak Road, Grafton
- Tuesday, Jan. 15: 4 pm - 6:30pm
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 512 North Main Street, Wellington
- Tuesday, Jan. 22: 1:30 pm - 4 pm
Amherst VFW, 165 Cleveland Street, Amherst
LCGHD Adult Health Clinics: (18 years of age and older)
- Walk-in Clinics are held the fourth Tuesday of Every Month at the Lorain County General Health District: 9880 S. Murray Ridge Road, Elyria, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.or more health tips, follow us LCGHD Twitter @LorainCoHealth and like the Lorain County General Health District on Facebook, or call us at at (440) 322-6367. For additional immunization clinic dates in February, visit LorainCountyFlu.com.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Try to avoid close contact with sick people. And read this: "This year's flu shot, which will be rolled out in the coming weeks, vaccinates against H1N1 and two strains of seasonal flu, Skowronski said. The protection offered by the vaccine varies from year to year, but is typically around 60 per cent." www.vancouversun.com/health/shot+have+worsened+H1N1/7222645/story.html