State and locally supplied flu vaccine now free and unrestricted for ages six months and older
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 9, 2012
BURLINGTON – The grip of the flu season is starting to take hold throughout North Carolina, but it’s still not too late to protect yourself from being sidelined.
Starting today, the time for putting off getting the flu shot has officially run out, as Alamance County Health Department (ACHD) begins giving flu shots for free, to everyone six months of age and older.
“Now that the holidays are behind us, this is an ideal time to protect yourself against the flu,” said Gayle Shoffner, Interim Nursing Director. “Unfortunately, with many individuals being in close contact over the holidays, germs were transmitted very easily and many people are now getting sick. By getting vaccinated, in addition to proper hand washing, covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and staying home if you are sick, the risk of catching or spreading disease is greatly reduced once antibodies have built up in the body. This usually takes between two and three weeks after being vaccinated.”
Shots will be given on a walk-in basis, Monday-Friday (excluding holidays), from 8:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. and from 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Again, this year’s seasonal vaccine contains several strains of influenza, including H1N1. Therefore, one shot is all most people will need. Children under age 8, who have not previously been vaccinated against the flu, may need two doses.
Free flu vaccine is available on a first come, first serve basis until the supply is exhausted. For general flu vaccine questions, please call the health department at (336) 227-0101.