FLU SEASON IS ALMOST HERE

It is the time of year when many across the country and Wiregrass will be trying to ward off the flu. The Alabama Department of Public Health, The Houston County Health Department, and local emergency agencies will soon hold a mass vaccination exercise. It`s all a part of the State`s Emergency Preparedness to prevent thousands of flu-related deaths. State and county agencies alike, are getting geared up for the October 29th mass vaccination campaign. Five thousand residents from all over the Wiregrass, are urged to come out and get your free vaccine...a dose that could save your life and keep you from catching that nasty flu bug. Charlotte Gilmore, Staff Nurse of Area 10 Immunization Team, says about 36,000 die every year from influenza. Persons over 65, and people with chronic illnesses, and persons with immunilogical problems are at high risk. When the flu vaccine is available in October, that would be the time for everyone to come for their shots. Experts say the causes for rapid spread of the virus can happen by simply reaching out to touch someone, or sneezing, touching objects, shaking hands, etc. Houston County Health Department Director, Peggy Blakeney says the exercise is a win win for the entire community. Three main reasons everyone should get vaccinated this season..in order to prevent influenza related deaths, prevent severe illness, and to protect the ones you love....a small price to pay for such a large lifesaving reward. The mass vaccine exercise is entirely funded through the Federal Homeland Security Budget, and Center for Emergency Preparedness. Remember, the event will be held Friday, October 29th at the Houston County Farm Center from 8am until 5pm. For more information, you may call the Houston County Health Department at 334-678-2800, or log on to their website at www.adph.org/houston and just click on vaccination exercise.