Charlotte, NC – The Mecklenburg County Health Department will hold an additional flu shot clinic on Sunday, December 9 at the Health Department's southeast location, 249 Billingsley Road, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. This clinic is an opportunity for residents to protect themselves during the upcoming influenza season.
Cost for the vaccine is $25 and can be paid for using cash, check or charge. Medicaid and Medicare "B" will also be accepted. Please bring your insurance card.
FREE FOR KIDS: The State of North Carolina has also expanded its free flu vaccine program for children. Children age 6 months to 18 years can get the vaccine free of charge.
Getting a flu vaccination is the very best way to help one's body resist the influenza virus. The vaccine begins to provide that protection in a matter of weeks, depending on the individual. So now is the perfect time for adults and children to get the shot.
To date, reports of influenza cases across the country have been sporadic at best. However, this could begin to change anytime. The holiday season, with family gatherings and parties with friends is prime time for the spread of colds and flu.
The Health Department is also scheduling appointments for vaccinations at either of its locations, 2845 Beatties Ford Road or 249 Billingsley Road. Residents need only call the appointment line at 704-336-6500.
Each year, on average, 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population is infected with influenza, with an estimated 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths from flu complications in a typical year.
Good, basic health habits are also essential staying healthy during the fall and winter months. They can help limit one's susceptibility to colds and flu. Important but simple tips for staying well include:
- Wash your hands. Cleaning your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid close contact. Stay away from people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to prevent them from becoming ill.
- Cover your mouth and nose. Cover both with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. This may prevent others from catching your illness.
- Stay home if you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, or errands when you are sick.
Remember, the Health Department is not the only provider across the community offering flu shots. Some private physicians, along with many drug and grocery stores, still have dates and times from which to choose. To see a list of these options and for more information on protecting yourself from seasonal influenza, visit www.meckhealth.org and click on Fluwatch.
Regular updates can be found by calling our Flu Clinic Information Hotline at 704-336-4667.
