National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 7-13, 2014
The holidays are here, and that means decorating, cooking and vaccinating. What is commonly referred to as a “flu shot” is the single most important step for protecting yourself and others against influenza. National Influenza Vaccination Week is Dec. 7-13, and to encourage everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot, Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) is now offering the vaccine for only $15.
“Preventative actions such as covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and frequently washing your hands can help guard you from the flu.” said Karen Thomas of Director of Immunizations at CDPH. “However the best way to protect against influenza is to receive an annual flu vaccine.”
Regardless of race, age, gender or ethnicity, anyone can get sick from the flu. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often have a fever (but not always), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue and some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Vaccines are available between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, at the Marietta, Acworth, East Cobb and Douglasville Public Health locations. No appointment is necessary.
CDPH is able to bill Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Meritain, TRICARE Standard, Humana, Coventry and First Health Insurances with no co-pay for the vaccine. Cash, Visa and MasterCard will also be accepted.
National Influenza Vaccination Week emphasizes the importance of receiving an annual flu vaccination. Even healthy children and adults can get very sick from the flu. For more information, call Cobb & Douglas Public Health at 770-514-2300 or visit cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org.