With fall just around the corner, flu activity will soon be on the rise in Maryland and across the U.S. The best way to prevent contracting and spreading influenza is for everyone 6 months of age and older to get an annual flu vaccine. The Allegany County Health Department now has vaccines available every Wednesday from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Willowbrook Office Complex on Willowbrook Road in Cumberland. Walk-ins welcome – no appointment is necessary. Each year influenza results in the hospitalization of roughly 200,000 people in the U.S., and more than 36,000 people nationwide die from influenza-related complications. The flu shot effectively prevents most cases of the flu and prevents the spread of the flu to others. Flu protection is particularly important for children, pregnant women, those who are immune-compromised or have any type of long-term illness, those over age 50, health care providers, and anyone working or living with persons at high risk for influenza complications. Common symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, fatigue, dry cough, or a runny nose (more common in children). You don’t need to experience all of these symptoms to have the flu. If you have one or two, it is recommended that you see your doctor. “In addition to practicing frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes, an annual flu vaccination is critical to protecting yourself and your loved ones from serious complications from the flu,” states Dr. Sue Raver, Health Officer for Allegany County. “Pneumonia is one of the most common complications, but underlying health issues can also contribute to serious problems in recuperating from influenza.” The cost this year is $30 for the regular flu vaccine, $50 for high-dose for those 65 and older, and $82 for pneumococcal vaccine. While payment is required at the time of service in the form of cash or check, no one will be denied service for inability to pay. The health department can bill Medicare and Maryland Physicians Care. For all other insurance plans, a receipt can be provided upon request should you wish to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider. While a large-scale public flu vaccination clinic is currently planned at the Allegany County Fairgrounds on November 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., those wishing to obtain a vaccination sooner can stop by the health department on any Wednesday afternoon between 1 and 4 p.m. without an appointment. For more information about flu prevention, the ACHD flu clinic, and the health benefits of getting the flu vaccine, contact the Health Department at 301-759-5082 or go online to alleganyhealthdept.
Posted on: Wed, 11 Sep 2013 09:45:06 +0000
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