[Press Release] : Flu shots and FluMist are available at the Health Department on a walk-in basis

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Chris Coffman, Public Health Nurse Supervisor - (573) 874-7453
or 874-7356, jccoffma at GoColumbiaMo.com 

Flu shots and FluMist are available at the Health Department on a
walk-in basis

COLUMBIA, MO (November 8, 2007) - If you have not received your flu
shot, there is still time. November, December and even later are
excellent months for receiving the flu shot/vaccination. Peak activity
for flu season does not normally occur until January or later and 60
percent of the flu seasons do not occur until February or later.

Peak protection from the flu shot is developed within two weeks after
the vaccination. However, protection from the flu starts developing
within hours of receiving the shot. A flu shot taken now through
December will give protection from the flu through the peak of the
season.

Over 36,000 people die from influenza in the U.S. each year during the
influenza/flu season. Infants and the population over 65 years are most
severely affected by complications from the flu. The young are affected
by complications such as ear infections and increased trips to the
physician or emergency room while the older population is more likely to
have complications such as pneumonia and death. Missed work and school
affect most of the remaining population.

The Columbia/Boone County Health Department is open to the public
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to administer flu shots
and/or FluMist on a walk-in basis. The cost is $20 per vaccination,
payable by cash or check. Medicare and Medicaid are also accepted. A
clinic is also planned for Saturday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and
is open to the public. 

Anyone wishing to reduce his or her risk of getting the flu (influenza)
should get an annual flu vaccination. People who are specifically
recommended to get the vaccine include:
- Children 6-59 months
- Women who will be pregnant during flu season
- People over 50 years
- Children receiving aspirin therapy
- People with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular
system
- People with chronic disorders such as diabetes
- Conditions that compromise the respiratory system such as asthma
- People who live with or care for people with high risk conditions
- Healthcare workers

Flu vaccine will continue to be offered at the Health Department until
the vaccine supply is exhausted. If you have questions, call the Health
Department at 874-7453 or 874 7356; there are nurses and staff on duty
from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to help you.

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