Autumn officially begins Saturday as the weather becomes more moderate. It won’t be long before we are in the icy grip of winter and with it, flu season.
According to a Beaufort County Health Department news release, “influenza is among the most common respiratory illnesses in the United States, infecting millions of people every flu season. Every year, flu spreads across the country, from person to person, family to family, and community to community. It can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu and flu-related complications.”
The prevention battle begins Oct. 1 as the health department starts offering seasonal flu shots for $25 from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the health department office, 1436 Highland Drive in Washington.
No appointment is necessary for the vaccines. Clients are encouraged to bring their insurance card and complete a registration form (available at www.bchd.net) prior to arrival.
For those clients covered by Medicare Part B, Railroad Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, N.C. Medicaid and N.C. Health Choice, health department officials will file reimbursement claims.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Fight the flu before infection strikes.
For any questions, contact Beaufort County Health Department at 252-946-1902.