Mahaska Health Partnership Encourages Flu Vaccines
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – According to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), the flu virus is circulating in Iowa and this year’s strains are particularly severe. Mahaska Health Partnership encourages people to get a flu shot and be mindful of symptoms of the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) determined this week that the strains of flu most active right now are not specifically covered by this year’s vaccine. However, MHP Public Health Coordinator Patty Malloy explained that getting vaccinated is still important. “This year’s vaccine protects against four different strains of the flu virus. So far, the dominate strains are slightly different than those in the vaccine. The vaccine still offers protection. If you do get the flu, the symptoms should be less severe if you have been vaccinated.”
According to the CDC, the flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. Symptoms may include a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, fatigue and headaches.
If you develop flu symptoms, see your primary care provider immediately. “There are anti-viral medications that can be prescribed to lessen the severity of your symptoms, but they are only effective if taken immediately,” Malloy explained. “Most importantly, stay home from work and school until your symptoms subside. You can infect others five to seven days after your symptoms appear. This year’s flu is particularly serious and can gravely affect the very young and elderly; each person needs to do their part to reduce the spread of the virus.”
Malloy said many people confuse the flu with various stomach bugs that cause vomiting and diarrhea. “The flu virus rarely causes these symptoms. It is important to know what accurate flu symptoms are so you can protect your friends, coworkers and loved ones from catching the virus should you be infected.”
Iowans over 6 months of age should receive a flu vaccine every year. While vaccination is the best defense against influenza, personal actions also help prevent the spread of illness. Remember the 3Cs:
Cover your coughs and sneezes
Clean your hands frequently
Contain germs by staying home when ill
MHP Public Health as well as primary care providers can give the flu vaccine. Public Health has walk-in flu clinics each Monday from 8:00 am – noon and Thursday from
1:00 – 4:00 pm through the end of March. Appointments are available calling 641.673.3257. At Public Health, the regular vaccine or mist is $25, high-dose vaccines for individuals 65 years of age and older are $30.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
