BERLIN – Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with those who are sick certainly helps but, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent the flu is getting a flu vaccine each year.
As a service to the community’s health, Atlantic General Hospital/Health System is again providing community flu shot clinics. Individuals must be at least 13 years old to receive the vaccine at one of the clinics.
To avoid long lines, however, community members are encouraged to contact their doctor’s office to receive their vaccine. Flu vaccine is considered preventative care and is covered at 100 percent by most insurances.
Atlantic General Health System (AGHS) has its supply of flu vaccine; patients of AGHS physicians can call today to schedule their flu shots or inquire about available walk-in times. Community members can also receive flu shots at Townsend Medical Center on 10th Street in Ocean City, no appointment necessary.
This year the hospital and health system has scheduled clinics as follows:
•Saturday, Oct. 3, 8 a.m.-noon: Community Health Fair, Ocean Pines Community Center
235 Ocean Parkway.
•Tuesday, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Taylor Bank (Snow Hill Branch).
•Thursday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Pocomoke Fire Department, 1410 Market Street.
•Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2-6 p.m., Atlantic General Hospital,
9733 Healthway Dr. (use Emergency Room Entrance).
•Thursday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Holy Savior Catholic Church, 1705 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City.
•Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2-6 p.m., Atlantic General Hospital, 9733 Healthway Dr. (use Emergency Room Entrance).
•Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Brandywine Senior Living at Fenwick Island, 21111 Arrington Dr. Selbyville, Del.
Influenza and complications resulting from the virus kill an estimated 20,000 people each year, according to the CDC. Although rates of influenza vaccinations have increased in recent years, health surveys indicate that less than half of the high-risk population receives a yearly vaccine.
Influenza, or flu, is a highly contagious virus spread by inhaling droplets from an infected individual’s cough or sneeze. Most symptoms emerge within 24 to 48 hours and are characterized by fever, chills, sore throat, cough and headache. Just one infected person can unknowingly pass on the flu to family members and loved ones because the virus can be transmitted 24 hours before symptoms appear. CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a seasonal flu vaccine.
Those at an increased risk for influenza related complications include persons 65 years and older, nursing home residents and other chronic care facilities, adults and children with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, including children with asthma people with metabolic diseases such as diabetes those with blood diseases like sickle cell anemia, or impaired immunity.
The vaccine is usually given before the flu season. Since flu viruses mutate often, vaccines should be repeated each year. The vaccine is made from eggs. If you are allergic to eggs, consult with your health care provider
For more information on the Atlantic General Hospital Community Flu Clinics, contact Atlantic General Hospital at 410-641-9FLU (9358).