December means plenty of holiday parties and family gatherings; don’t let the flu hold you back from the festivities this season. Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) encourages all Cobb and Douglas residents to get their flu vaccine.
What is new this flu season?
- Flu vaccines have been updated to better match circulating flu viruses
- All regular-dose flu shots will be quadrivalent
- The nasal spray flu vaccine (LAIV) is a vaccine option. Ask your health care provider about what vaccine is right for you
Preventative actions such as simply washing your hands and covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing can guard against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that so far this season there have been at least 2.6 million flu-related illnesses and 1,300 deaths from flu nationwide.
“We offer flu shots at our Marietta, Douglasville, Smyrna and Kennesaw-Acworth Public Health Centers and there’s no appointment needed. It’s a minor commitment to staying healthy through the holidays and all year long,“ said Priti Kolhe, Director of Immunizations for CDPH.“
The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine and getting a flu vaccine is more convenient than ever before. Vaccines are available at your local health department, at your doctor’s office or and at many retail pharmacies.
For more information about the flu, visit http://www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org
About Cobb & Douglas Public Health
Cobb & Douglas Public Health, along with the Georgia Department of Public Health, has been committed to the mission of “Healthier Lives. Healthier Community.” since 1920. We are dedicated to improving our residents’ quality of life by tracking and preventing the spread of disease, promoting health and safety, providing exceptional medical services, and ensuring that our community is prepared for public health emergencies. For more information, visit www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org.