Although it is well into the flu season, “it is not too late to get vaccinated.”
That’s according to Chris Sikes, the county nurse manager at the Houston County Health Department.
“Its the best protection you can get from the flu,” said Sikes about the vaccine.
She said the Health Department, located at 98 Cohen Walker Dr., provides an on-going flu clinic for walk-ins that has “plenty of vaccines.” The Health Department also works in combination with the school board to provide vaccines. She said there has been an increase in the school vaccines, but the amount of people who are walk-ins at the clinic has remained average.
Sikes urged those who feel like they are sick to see their primary care doctor.
Priscilla Kennedy, the public relations and marketing specialist with Houston Healthcare, said there are also med-stops available for people who think they may have the flu.
If a person does have the flu, Sikes said, “They should stay away from people. Stay home from work and school
She said people who have the flu should wash their hands regularly, get a lot of rest, eat well and stay properly hydrated.
According to Kennedy, since Sept. 1, the countys three Med-Stops and two emergency rooms have seen a total of 1,239 people with who have/had the flu.
Kennedy said, “A total of 47 people (have been) admitted to the hospital, both the Houston Medical Center and Perry.”
HHJ News
