The Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises that all people ages six months and older should receive annual flu vaccinations. It takes up to two weeks to become fully protected after receiving the vaccine.
Information regarding influenza illness and vaccine can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.
- CDC’s “Take 3 Steps to Fight the Flu“. This site contains information about how to protect yourself from influenza.
- Printable information sheet on flu vaccine facts.
- How to tell if it’s a cold or flu.
To find flu clinics in your area go to the HealthMap Vaccine Finder.
The Virginia Department of Health suggests the following to reduce the spread of the flu:
- Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing; dispose of the tissue immediately and wash hands thoroughly.
- Frequently wash hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds.
- Rinse and dry hands with a disposable towel. Use towel to turn off the faucet.
- Stay home from work or school for 5-7 days if you have flu like symptoms.
- Refrain from visiting a nursing home if you have flu like symptoms
- In addition, hospitals and clinicians should continue to report any clusters of respiratory illness to the local health department.
For more vaccine information call Shirley Bakka at 804-501-4521 or Joane Bradshaw at 804-652-3167.