The fall and winter seasons are the time of year when illness most rapidly spreads throughout the community. It can be difficult to predict how viral infections will be, but yearly vaccinations can help prevent illness and limit this spread.
Now, ahead of the influenza (flu) season really begins, is the best time to schedule your annual flu shot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly encourages flu vaccines for those six months and older, and for those with underlying health conditions and compromised immune systems. The flu can cause life-threatening complications for infants, older adults and those with chronic conditions.
“Annual flu vaccinations help prevent the spread of influenza, as well as lessen severity of some cases,” Robert Healy, MD, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Quality, Patient Safety and Experience, said. “Preventing the spread of influenza in our communities is the most effective tool we have to keep our loved ones safe and healthy. These clinics provide another easy, local option for community members to receive a vaccination and stay healthier this season.”
Even those who received a flu shot in 2023 should schedule a vaccination appointment this season to receive an updated formula. Every flu season is different, and viruses change from year to year. An annual flu shot is the best protection from current strains.
Visit Flu Central at Carle.org for a full list of Carle Health Flu Clinics across the region, or call (217) 326-5000 to request flu clinic information in a specific area. Carle Health patients can also make an appointment on MyCarle.
Patients are also encouraged to protect themselves against other illnesses and viruses that typically spread this time of year. Ask your provider what vaccinations you are eligible to receive. When patients are fully up to date on all vaccinations, the community is better protected from illnesses and helps reduce the chances of our most vulnerable to contracting disease.
Convenient Care is another care option for conditions like the flu, colds, and other infections that cause sore throats and aches. Community members should call 9-1-1 or be driven to the Emergency Department when struggling to breathe, or when developing a considerable fever.
Take extra precautions this fall and winter with mitigation efforts like increasing handwashing and limiting contact with those displaying flu-like symptoms.
Patients can visit their local retail pharmacy to receive the shot. Patients can also request a flu shot during a primary care appointment or at their local health department.
Visit Flu Central at Carle.org for more information.
Now, ahead of the influenza (flu) season really begins, is the best time to schedule your annual flu shot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly encourages flu vaccines for those six months and older, and for those with underlying health conditions and compromised immune systems. The flu can cause life-threatening complications for infants, older adults and those with chronic conditions.
“Annual flu vaccinations help prevent the spread of influenza, as well as lessen severity of some cases,” Robert Healy, MD, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Quality, Patient Safety and Experience, said. “Preventing the spread of influenza in our communities is the most effective tool we have to keep our loved ones safe and healthy. These clinics provide another easy, local option for community members to receive a vaccination and stay healthier this season.”
Even those who received a flu shot in 2023 should schedule a vaccination appointment this season to receive an updated formula. Every flu season is different, and viruses change from year to year. An annual flu shot is the best protection from current strains.
Visit Flu Central at Carle.org for a full list of Carle Health Flu Clinics across the region, or call (217) 326-5000 to request flu clinic information in a specific area. Carle Health patients can also make an appointment on MyCarle.
Patients are also encouraged to protect themselves against other illnesses and viruses that typically spread this time of year. Ask your provider what vaccinations you are eligible to receive. When patients are fully up to date on all vaccinations, the community is better protected from illnesses and helps reduce the chances of our most vulnerable to contracting disease.
Convenient Care is another care option for conditions like the flu, colds, and other infections that cause sore throats and aches. Community members should call 9-1-1 or be driven to the Emergency Department when struggling to breathe, or when developing a considerable fever.
Take extra precautions this fall and winter with mitigation efforts like increasing handwashing and limiting contact with those displaying flu-like symptoms.
Patients can visit their local retail pharmacy to receive the shot. Patients can also request a flu shot during a primary care appointment or at their local health department.
Visit Flu Central at Carle.org for more information.
Categories: Staying Healthy
Tags: Clinic, Community, Flu, Immunization, Influenza, Vaccination