Flu Vaccines Now Available in Stephens Co.

Fall is here, which means flu season is arriving in Georgia.

According to the Center for Disease Control, flu season typically lasts from October to May in the United States, but can occur at any time.

Georgia District Two Public Health Spokesman Dave Palmer said that means now is a good time for residents to get that flu shot.

“Looking at the map of flu activity for the nation, we still have low flu activity here in Georgia,” said Palmer. “With flu, it is unpredictable. We can see it at any time. So it is a good time for people to get their flu shot because it takes about two weeks for us to build up immunity from the flu, so if you get your shot now, you will be covered for the season.”

Flu vaccine is currently available at the Stephens County Health Department.

People can get flu shots on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Flu shots are also available on Tuesdays and Thursdays during those times, but people those days will be worked into the schedule as time allows as other clinics are going on.

The “high-dose” flu vaccine recommended for people age 65 and older is also available.

Palmer said that the flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.

According to the CDC, everyone six months of age or older that can get the flu shot should get it, but certain groups are particularly encouraged because they are at higher risk.

Palmer said those include pregnant women, children under age 5 and people over age 50, and people with certain chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems.

Other groups at a higher risk include people who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, people who live with or care for those at high-risk for complications from the flu, health care workers, and parents and caregivers of children under six months of age.

Meanwhile, Palmer said people also should remember other important health tips to try and avoid the spread of the flu this season.

“We also want to remind folks to take steps to prevent not just the flu, but other germs we see in the wintertime by covering their coughs and sneezes, washing their hands often, and not sharing food or utensils with others who are sick,” said Palmer.

Also, Palmer said people should stay home if they are sick.

For those getting a flu shot at the Stephens County Health Department, the health department accepts cash, credit, and debit cards, as well as insurance. People should have their insurance cards when they go for their shot.