November 17, 2005

It's Not Too Late to
Get a Flu Shot!

COEUR d'ALENE, Idaho - Panhandle Health District still has plenty of flu vaccine for North Idaho residents and it's not too late to still get a flu shot.

PHD will offer flu shots 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. this Friday and on Nov. 25 at the PHD office, 2195 Ironwood Court in Coeur d'Alene. Cost is $20 and is covered by Medicare Part B or Medicaid.

The season for flu, also called influenza, generally runs November through March.

"The flu season hasn't really gotten under way in our area yet," PHD immunization coordinator Mareva Kammeyer said. "But, we know it's coming and we encourage everyone to get a flu shot to protect themselves and their family from getting seriously ill this winter."

Although getting a flu shot may not prevent someone from catching the flu, it could lessen the severity of the illness.

Parents also are encouraged to take steps to protect their children against the flu. PHD offers Flu Mist, a nasal spray vaccine for healthy children ages 5-18 years. Cost is $5.

Flu vaccination time also is a good time for parents to check on other vaccinations for their children. People over the age of 65 should also talk to their healthcare provider about a pneumonia shot.

Flu symptoms include a fever, headache, deep cough, sore throat, chills, muscle aches, and a general feeling of being wiped out.

For flu shot information in outlying counties, please call your local Panhandle Health District office:

• Benewah County - 245-4556
• Bonner County - 263-5159
• Boundary County - 267-5558
• Shoshone County - 786-7474

During the flu season, and all year long, people are encouraged to take preventive measures to protect their health. These include:

• Use proper handwashing techniques, especially before eating or after being out in the public.
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
• Cover your mouth if you are sniffling, sneezing or coughing.
• Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.
• Refrain from visiting a nursing home if you have a cough or respiratory illness.
• Avoid people who may be sneezing or coughing.
• After visiting public places, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth until you have washed your hands.
• Get plenty of rest, exercise and eat healthful foods.

You should not have a flu shot if:

• You are allergic to eggs; the flu vaccine is grown in hens' eggs.
• You have had a severe reaction to a flu shot in the past.
• Individuals with Guillain-Barre syndrome should consult their physician before getting a flu shot.
• Children less than 6 months old
• People who are sick with a fever. (They can receive the vaccine after symptoms lessen.)

Call PHD at 415-5299 for flu shot information.