The Cheatham County Health Department offers free flu vaccination to their constituents in their aim to provide protection against the threatening influenza virus that has brought many individuals to hospitals across the country. Residents may walk in the department for their free vaccine during the scheduled clinic hours.
Vaccination against influenza is critical and crucial because it provides protection from the virus that has caused a country-wide epidemic late last year. Vanessa Watkins, county director said, "Vaccination is the best protection against the flu, and the Cheatham County Health Department, the Tennessee Department of Health and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) recommend that everyone six months of age and older get a flu vaccine every year. It takes about two weeks to be protected after you get the flu vaccine, so we want everyone who hasn't had their flu shot to get one right away."
The vaccines are both for adults and children. Flu vaccines are specifically indicated to those who have weakened immune systems, children and older adults.
Meanwhile, Allegheny County Health Department says more than 2,000 confirmed cases of flu have been reported as of this moment including three deaths. The cases in this county are the highest in the state. There are a total of 362 patients that have been confined in hospitals since the epidemic started in late 2014.
Dr. Karen Hacker from the Allegheny County Health Department said, "We have had three deaths thus far, and it certainly looks like from the information I have that those generally were either elderly people or people who had other types of conditions as well." She added that this year's outbreak is the worst in her memory.
In related news, government agency Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a report that there are already 43 states that are experiencing a high rate and widespread flu activity. As a result, many health departments are now issuing free vaccinations. Although there is a concern on the potency of the current flu vaccine due to mutations of the virus, health officials recommend to get double doses for optimal protection.
"I believe it is readily available. It's a high dose. It's recommended for people over 65. They need to ask their physicians about getting it," she said.
Also, health officials are recommending that special attention should be given to the hygiene of children. Hand washing is the single most effective method to avoid the spreading of infectious microorganisms such as the influenza virus.
