Winneshiek County Public Health would like to remind you of the importance of receiving your flu vaccination now

Winneshiek County Public Health would like to remind you of the importance of receiving your flu vaccination now.

Walk-ins are still being accepted 12 noon to 4 p.m. at our office when the agency is open. It will be closed on November 10th for Veterans Day.
 
Iowa Department of Public Health did release information on 10/30/17 that an individual from Iowa has died from complications of influenza in the month of October.
 
The CDC recommends that essentially everyone over 6 months of age should receive the flu vaccine. Now is a good time to be vaccinated, before the holiday season begins. It takes up to two weeks after vaccination for the body to achieve full benefit against the flu virus.

The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. The flu comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days, and often puts healthy people in bed for days. The 'stomach bug' which causes diarrhea and vomiting is not caused by the influenza virus, but usually by norovirus; thus, the flu vaccine will not protect you against this illness.
 
If you are ill, stay home from work, social events, and other activities in the community. Get plenty of rest and fluids and contact your health provider if any concerns. Practice good handwashing in effort to remain healthy.
 
Don't delay – get your flu shot now.
 
Call Winneshiek County Public Health at 563-382-4662 for additional information.