Bartow County Health Department to conduct flu-immunization clinic

The Bartow County Health Department will be offering flu immunizations to anyone 6 months and older at a special flu-shot clinic Thursday, October 4, at the Cartersville Civic Center from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. "We're staying late so folks can come by after work or school," said health department Nurse Manager Cathy Green.

Cost is $20. Cash, check, credit cards, Medicare, Medicaid, PeachCare, Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and state employee United Healthcare and CIGNA insurance will be accepted.

Green said pneumonia vaccine will also be available at the clinic and emphasized its importance for seniors. Private pay cost is $88, and same forms of insurance will be accepted.

"It's not too soon to get the flu vaccine and be protected throughout this flu season," Green also said. "A yearly flu vaccination now is recommended for virtually everyone, except babies younger than 6 months and people with severe allergies to the eggs used to make vaccine."

Seasonal flu can cause mild to severe illness -- even death, Green said. "Some people, such as older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease are at high risk for serious flu complications," she said.

Flu symptoms include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, a dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms are also common, especially in children.

Besides getting the flu vaccine, there are other actions that protect against the flu:

• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based rub if soap and water aren't available.

• People who are sick with flu-like illness should stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.

For more information about the seasonal flu vaccine or the upcoming flu-immunization clinic, contact the Bartow County Health Department at 770-382-1920. Visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/ for more information about flu.