Seasonal Flu
When 2010 Seasonal Flu Clinics are scheduled, additional information will be placed here.
Influenza (the Flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza virus. Flu virus is spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with the flu. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.
In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. The single BEST WAY to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot each fall. The following people are encouraged to get flu shots:
- People at high risk for complications from the flu, including:
- Children aged 6-59 months of age,
- Pregnant women,
- People 50 years of age and older,
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and
- People who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities.
- People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from the flu, including:
- Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu,
- Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated), and/or
- Health care workers.
- Anyone who wants to decrease their risk of influenza.
For more information, visit the CDC flu page or the IDPH flu page.