Influenza “flu”

The Richland County Health Department is saying that it is never too late to get vaccinated against influenza and that getting it now is especially important because the holiday season is here.

All of our staff is encouraging Richland County residents to get their vaccine. “As families gather for the holidays, it is very important to immunize yourself and your family members.” “Everyone who has not yet received the seasonal influenza vaccine should do so before the holidays. The flu vaccine is the most effective and safest way to remain immune to influenza viruses.”

Vaccination remains the cornerstone of preventing influenza. Influenza can spread rapidly as people begin to travel throughout the holiday season. Individuals who are ill can unknowingly expose vulnerable individuals to the influenza virus. While some people suffer minor complications from influenza infection, the elderly, infants, and those with underlying chronic health conditions can experience complications that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Richland County Health Department recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone except babies younger than 6 months and those with unusual allergies and medical conditions.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, the virus becomes an airborne contagion – waiting to be inhaled by anyone nearby. The risk of infection is greater in highly populated areas like schools, daycares, and work settings. You can also get the flu by touching a contaminated surface like a telephone or a door knob, and then touching your nose or mouth. The influenza virus usually enters the body through mucus membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes.

Sudden onset and severity of symptoms are hallmarks of the flu and help to distinguish it from other illnesses, like the common cold. Other indications include chills and fever, headaches, muscular aches and pain, cough, and runny nose. Sometime these symptoms are accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.

This year’s influenza vaccine protects against the three virus strains likely to be most common during the upcoming season and includes the same virus strains for last year’s influenza season. The effectiveness of the vaccination lasts throughout the entire influenza season.

People wanting more information may call Richland County Health Department at 433-2207 or consult their health care provider. Influenza vaccine is still available at Richland County Health Department with regular clinic hours on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon-4:30 p.m. We will be closed on two Mondays, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.