HUNTSVILLE — On Nov. 1, Scott County Mayor Dale Perdue and county health department director Art Miller met to kick-off the promotion of the importance of the flu vaccine. Perdue is asking all county citizens to take advantage of the flu vaccine being offered at the Scott County Health Department and other local health providers and pharmacies in Scott County.
The Scott Health Department is currently providing flu vaccine and will provide clinics at the local schools within Oneida and Scott County.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Tennessee Department of Health report that the influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Populations such as young children and elderly are at a higher risk for serious flu complications.
“The most effective defense against the flu is to be vaccinated,” stated Miller.
The CDC reports the flu vaccine will protect against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. This includes an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and one or two influenza B viruses, depending on the flu vaccine.
“Good health habits such as covering your cough, washing your hands often and people who are sick should stay home to recover and to prevent spreading illness to co-workers and friends can assist in preventing the spread of germs such as the flu as we enter the flu season,” said Miller.
Schedule your appointment today for your flu shot by calling the Scott County Health Department at 663-2445 or contact your provider.
Last modified: November 30, 2016
