Crawford County Public Health is urging residents to get the flu vaccine this season.
According to a community announcement, the department is providing a variety of vaccine options, including all flu vaccines in single-dose formulations free of thimerosal as a preservative.
The standard flu vaccine is recommended for most people aged 6 months and up. Flublok, an egg-free vaccine, is available for children aged 9 and up and is a good option for those with egg allergies. The high-dose flu vaccine is intended for adults aged 65 and up and provides four times more protection than a standard flu shot.
“Getting a flu shot is the best way to reduce your risk of illness, hospitalization, or severe complications from the flu,” said Amy Ramirez, Crawford County Public Health director of nursing, in a statement. “With a variety of vaccine options available, everyone can find one that meets their needs. Some people are more likely to develop severe flu complications if they become ill, including the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with certain underlying medical conditions. Getting a flu vaccine every year is especially important for people in these categories.
Drive-thru and walk-in clinics in October
Crawford County Public Health will hold its annual drive-thru flu shot clinic from 3-6 p.m. on October 8 at its Bucyrus office, 1520 Isaac Beal Road. A walk-in clinic will be held on October 15 from 9-11:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in New Washington. Flu shots will also be available by appointment on Thursdays in October at the health department. You can make an appointment by calling 419-562-5871.
Everyone over the age of six months should have an annual vaccination. The flu vaccine does not cause the flu, and the body develops immunity about two weeks after vaccination. October is the best month for flu vaccination in the area, as effectiveness typically declines after six months.
