Officials with Shelby County Health Clinics report the Flu vaccine is still available at Myrtue Medical Center’s Public Health office.  And, there will be another Flu Vaccination Clinic on December 4^th from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m.   You can register for an appointment at www.shelbycountyclinics.com or by calling 755-4422.  All ages are welcome for the clinic.

Shelby County Public Health Director, Jennifer Muff says  “As long as flu viruses are circulating, people can get sick.” She says “Flu activity generally peaks in January or February and lasts into the spring, so it is definitely not too late to get a vaccination.” It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body’s immune response to provide fully protection.

Shelby Public Health joins the Iowa Department of Public Health and the CDC in recognizing December 8 through 14 as National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW). The CDC established NIVW to highlight the importance of continuing flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.  For more information, see http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/nivw/nivw_media_toolkit_2013.pdf .  Flu vaccine is also available at Myrtue Medical Center’s medical clinics.

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. While the flu vaccine is the best defense against getting influenza, it’s also important to take personal actions to help prevent the spread of illness. Remember the 3Cs: Cover your coughs and sneezes; Clean your hands frequently; and Contain germs by staying home when ill.