It's Time to Get Your Flu Shot!

Each year, flu season is unpredictable and severe. The past several years we have seen mild flu seasons. Other flu seasons, such as when the H1N1 and H2N3 strains appeared, we saw healthy individuals, those with underlying health conditions, the young and old become sick, hospitalized, and even die. This year, we could possibly be in for a rough flu season.

“Australia has had their worst flu season in the last five years, cases peaked months earlier and we could easily see the same in Iowa and the United States,” says Deb Pestotnik, Boone Public Health Director.  “Our community should take this information seriously and get a flu shot to protect themselves and their family.”

Flu (influenza), like COVID-19, is a contagious respiratory illness that disproportionately affects adults ages 65 and older, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions. However, they are not the same viruses, and it is very possible to get both illnesses at the same time as cases continue to rise. If individuals are sick with either the flu or COVID-19, they should contact their healthcare provider to be tested to determine what illness they have and to receive guidance on how to treat the illness. Individuals should stay home from work, school or running errands until they are feeling better.

The flu shot is recommended for everyone ages six months and older annually and should receive the vaccine by October. When individuals are getting their flu shot, they should also use the opportunity to make sure they are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Flu and COVID vaccines may be administered at the same time.

Most major insurance plans are accepted. Do not forget to bring your insurance card to the clinic.  To schedule your flu vaccine, call your doctor’s office or stop by your local Pharmacy.