As the leaves begin to fall, we are once again reminded that the seasons are changing and cold weather will be upon us once again. That means winter’s companion — the flu — will also be making its rounds through schools, day cares and businesses, sooner that you might think.
“Influenza circulates year-round, but influenza spread typically picks up and remains active between October and May,” said Iowa Department of Health Medical Director Dr. Patricia Quinlisk. “The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year. Being vaccinated now will ensure protection before the flu season starts in October; it’s not too early to get your shot.”
The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the influenza viruses research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Traditional flu vaccines (called “trivalent” vaccines) are made to protect against three flu viruses: influenza A (H1N1) virus, influenza A (H3N2) virus and an influenza B virus. “Quadrivalent” vaccines, which protect against the same three viruses as the trivalent vaccine and a second B virus are also available.
Vaccination is available in many forms, including a traditional shot and a nasal spray. Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to get a flu vaccine every season.
Those who are high risk, including the very young and those ages 65 and older, are highly recommended to get the vaccination. According to the Center of Disease Control, as many as 90 percent of flu-related deaths in the United States occur in people ages 65 and older.
The standard flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses and typically lasts two to seven days. It usually comes on suddenly and may cause severe illness or even death, even in healthy individuals.
The “stomach bug,” which causes diarrhea and vomiting, is not caused by the influenza virus but usually by norovirus and is not protected by the flu vaccine.
Skiff Home Care and Jasper County Public Health are holding three flu clinics in the month of October. The first will be from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 7 at the Colfax Senior Citizen Center. The second is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 9 at the Newton Community Center with the final clinic from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Oct. 20 at DMACC.
The cost for a regular dose is $25 with the high dose at $40. Appointments for flu shots can also be made by calling Skiff at 641-792-5086.
The Newton Clinic also offers walk-in flu vaccinations from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com