The Cascade City-County Health Department (CCHD) recently received confirmation of influenza cases in Cascade County from the Montana Public Health Laboratory.
A press release from CCHD says that these cases show that influenza is present in the community and residents are urged to take steps to protect themselves against this, and other illnesses.
The flu shot is the first line of defense when protecting yourself and family from the influenza virus. To help keep people healthy CCHD offers two convenient Community Flu Shot Clinics this month:
- The Drive Thru Flu Clinic is September 19th from 10-2pm at the Montana ExpoPark for ages 18 and over.
- The Walk In Flu Clinic is September 26th from 12-4:30pm at the Montana ExpoPark Exhibition Hall and will serve ages 6 months and older.
Another addition to this year’s flu clinics is the High-Dose Vaccine. This particular vaccine is recommended to ages 65 and older. The cost of the flu shot is $30, unless an individual chooses the High-Dose Vaccine, then cost may vary. CCHD will be accepting all forms of payments, including insurance, at both clinics. However, most insurances cover the complete cost of the flu shot, so don’t forget to bring your insurance card!
For those not able to attend one of the clinics, beginning September 27th, individuals can walk in to CCHD during normal immunization hours to get their flu shot. There is no better place to get a vaccination; CCHD staff are the vaccination experts! Immunization staff receive extensive training in proper vaccine storage and giving vaccinations safely.
In addition to the flu shot, it is important to practice healthy habits when the flu virus is in the community. “Oftentimes, these illnesses can be prevented with a few simple prevention habits.” says Trixie Smith, Prevention Services Manager. “These habits include frequent hand washing, covering your coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you are sick.” Practicing good prevention habits can keep you and your family healthy.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water; you may also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is not readily available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; germs are easily spread this way.
- Routinely clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces and objects, like telephones and doorknobs. This is especially important after an episode of illness. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and remove and wash any clothing or linens that may be contaminated after an episode of illness.
- Don’t prepare food if you are sick.
- Ensure you get adequate rest and eat a healthy diet.
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness with symptoms that may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.
The flu virus is contagious and spreads from person to person through droplets when sneezing or coughing. It can also spread when a person touches an object that has the virus on it and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Flu shots are available at the City-County Health Department Monday-Friday from 8:30am- 11:30am and 1:00pm-4:30pm. No appointment is necessary. Most insurances cover the full cost of a flu shot and CCHD accepts all forms of payments and insurance.
Source: http://bit.ly/2xjQCzR
